Bernard Bastardo

Bernard P. " Papa Bernie" Bastardo, 67 , a retired Worcester Firefighter died peacefully Friday August 26, 2011 surrounded by his loving family. Bernie is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years Joan I. (Kniskern) Bastardo, his loving daughter Geralynn M. D'Elia and her husband John of Worcester, sons Matthew C. Bastardo and Nicholas Bastardo both of Worcester. Papa Bernie is also survived by his adored grandchildren; Aimee, Anthony, and Megan D'Elia, and Aloha Bastardo. Also a sister Sandra Pazooki of Worcester and a sister in law Irene Bastardo and brother in law George Ruggieri , and many nephews and nieces. Bernie was predeceased by a brother F. William Bastardo, and a sister Donna Ruggieri. Bernie was born in Manchester N. H. son of the late Verladine "Benny" and Mary (Brown) Bastardo and came to Worcester as a child. He was a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy, and was a member of the National Guard. Bernie served the City of Worcester as a Firefighter for over 35 years before he retired. He was stationed at the Southbridge St. McKeon Rd. and the former Cambridge St. fire houses. He attended Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Ann Church, and was a member of the Local 1009 Worcester Firefighters Union, and the Brown Square Civic Club. He enjoyed playing golf, walking, and loved going to the beach in Florida. But his most precious times were those spent with his family, especially the grandkids they were his pride and joy! The family would like to extend a special thank you to his dear friends John Casello and Larry Casella, and the Nurses and staff at the UMASS Memorial Hospital. Also a huge thank you and eternal gratefullness to his two special sisters in law Laurie DeBrusk and Cheryl Robidoux for all their support and love it will never be forgotten. Bernie's funeral will be held Thursday from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 370 Plantation St. with a Mass of Christian burial at 11:00AM in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel-St Ann Church 24 Mulberry St. Calling hours in the funeral home are from 5:00PM to 8:00PM on Wednesday. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society 350 Plantation St Worcester MA. 01604.