Ferdinand Freddy Pettinella

Ferdinand "Freddy" Pettinella, 88, a lifelong Worcester resident and former Battle of the Bulge Military Police Soldier passed away Thursday, February 14th 2013 after a period of declining health. Freddy was born in Worcester, a son of Italian immigrants Camillo and Concetta (Lattanzio) Pettinella. He graduated for Worcester Boys Trade as a welder, then joined the U.S. Army serving as a soldier in the Military Police in Europe, earning three Bronze Battle stars and the Purple Heart medal among others, notably taking part in the battle of the bulge in Europe. Upon returning home, Freddy began his career as a welder for the Iron workers union helping to construct the State Mutual building and ships at the Quincy Ship Yards. The opportunity came up to become a Worcester Police Officer, and he began a new career working as a patrolman for the City of Worcester before retiring with 20 year's of service. Freddy working as a police officer was instrumental in petitioning the City of Worcester to pursue a law covering policeman injured during working pay details. Freddy is survived by his two sisters, Nancy Brindisi and Joan Aslanian and her husband Richard all of Worcester; four nephews, Chris,Greg and Scott Pettinella, and Frank Brindisi; extended family and friends. Two brothers, Rocco and Anthony Pettinella, and a sister Elizabeth all pre deceased him. Freddy was a member of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church. The Eastside Post American Legion Post 201, the DAV Chapter #4 in Worcester, the Knights of Columbus Pope John Council and the 4th degree Bishop O'Reilly Assembly, the Worcester Police Union and the Mass Police Association. Fred loved to Travel and over the years has visited more than 35 countries in the world traveling with the MPA. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Sunday, February 17th from 3 pm to 6 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Members of the Eastside Post 201 will meet at 5 pm in the funeral home to conduct their ritual. His funeral will be held Monday, February 18th from the funeral home with a procession to Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, 24 Mulberry St. where his Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 am. Entombment with Military Honors will follow in Notre Dame Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances may be made to the Veterans Inc., 60 Grove Street Worcester 01608.