Jack Pantanella

Jack "Roland" Pantanella, 89 of Shrewsbury formerly of Worcester, passed away Thursday, December 10th 2009 with his daughter at his side. Jack's wife of 52 years Evelyn D. (Biggs) Pantanella passed away in 1997. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Susan M. Richard and her husband Arthur of Oakham; two sisters Betty-Ann Allen and Eleanor Murray both of Worcester; two grandchildren Cindy Metlzer and her husband Daniel Of Needham and David Richard of Oakham; two great grandchildren, Evan and Lauren; nieces, nephews and friends. Jack was born in Worcester, a son of Bernard and Josephine M. (Toto) Pantanella. He graduated from the Commerce High School, served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during World War II in North Africa and taking part in the Battle of Anzio. Upon returning home, Jack attended Worcester Junior College and WPI. Jack lived in Worcester and Shrewsbury most of his life. Jack worked 18 years for the U.S. Postal Service as Chief Personnel Officer in Worcester. He previously worked several years for the Office of Naval Research on Long Island NY. Jack was a member of St Mary's Church. The American Association of Government Employees Association and the Knights of Columbus in St. Petersburg Florida. His greatest pleasure was traveling with his wife Evelyn and spending time with his family. He was an avid walker, fisherman and photographer as well as a talented artist. Jack's funeral will be held Monday, December 14th from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL; 370 Plantation St. with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in St Mary's Church, 640 Main St. Burial will follow in Mt View Cemetery. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Sunday December 13th from 3 pm to 5 pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Umass Memorial Hospice, 650 Lincoln St. Worcester 01605. The family would like to thank the Umass Memorial Hospice, especially Kim, Anne, Tom, Tomoka and John as well as the Oakdale Nursing Center for the outstanding care Jack received there.