James J Barbato

James J. Barbato, 95, of Worcester, passed away on Saturday, July 28, 2012 in The Jewish Healthcare Center. His wife of sixty-eight years, Dorothy J. (Manna) Barbato, predeceased him in September 2007. James is survived by his family including a daughter, Joan M. Champagne and her husband Raymond of Lancaster; two sons, Dr. James P. Barbato and his wife Ann of Sterling and John R. Barbato of Auburn; six grandchildren, Jeremy Barbato of Webster, Mark Barbato of Leicester, Steven Milliard and his wife Donna of West Boylston, Brian Milliard of Leominster, Christine Medeiros and her husband Wayne of Derry, NH, and Dr. Michael Brady and his wife Stephanie of Arlington; six great grandchildren, Allison Milliard, Joseph, Michael, and Kate Barbato, Colton Medeiros and Tyler Brady; many nieces and nephews. James was predeceased by four brothers and three sisters, Armand, Eli, Orlando, Peter, Rose, Phyllis and Edith. James was born in Worcester, son of the late Natale and Adelaide (Cirelli) Barbato and has lived here all his life. He attended North High School in Worcester and served his nation proudly in the United States Army, and was stationed on Iwo Jima. Mr. Barbato worked as a molder for Standard Foundry in Worcester. He was a natural athlete and played semi-professional baseball in his youth. He was instrumental in the founding of Little League Baseball in Worcester, and coached on the first four teams. He enjoyed playing tennis and continued to play with his wife, well into their eighties. He enjoyed golf and was an avid Patriots and Red Sox fan. James was a wonderful and kind husband, father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by those that loved him. Throughout his retirement years, he spent his time taking care of family. He was always available to help and had a generous spirit. Funeral services will be held privately at the convenience of his family. MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, Worcester.