Gregory Mandara

Gregory A. Mandara, adored 10-year-old son of Dave and Chris (Massad) Mandara, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2009 at UMass Memorial Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. In addition to his parents, Greg is survived by his two sisters, Emily and Katie; his maternal grandparents, David and Bette Massad of Westborough; his paternal grandmother, Dorothy Pareti and her husband, L. Robert Pareti of New Jersey; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Greg fought a long, courageous battle with leukemia and the family is grateful to the entire pediatric staff of UMass for their kindness and compassion. During his illness, he was blessed to have companionship and support from Karen, Jeff and Justin of The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Outreach Program. Greg's infectious personality touched the hearts of everyone he came into contact with; he exemplified bravery, strength, and courage. Greg completed the fourth grade and looked forward to his time at the Northborough Lincoln Street School where an incredibly wonderful community of faculty and friends supported him. Greg loved music and was enthusiastic about playing the piano. He enjoyed snowboarding, pulling pranks on everyone, hanging with friends, and spending time with his family. Calling hours will be held Tuesday, August 4, from 5p.m. until 8 p.m. at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. Greg's celebration of life mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5, at Saint Rose of Lima Church, 244 West Main Street, Northborough. Interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Greg's memory be made to Paul Newman's The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Outreach Program, 565 Ashford Center Road, Ashford, CT 06278 or www.newhaven@holeinthewallgang.org.