Joseph DiPilato

Joseph DiPilato, who celebrated his 95th birthday on August 1, formerly of Pleasant Valley Drive in Worcester, passed away Monday, August 4, 2008 in University Commons. His loving wife of sixty-one years, Vincenza "Vinie" (Police) DiPilato, predeceased him in April 2000. Mr. DiPilato is survived by a loving family, including his daughters, Ruth Nelson of Worcester, Joanna Roskidany of Auburn, and Marie Beckstrom of Oxford; a sister, Elizabeth Petrone of Coral Springs, Florida; four grandchildren, Mark Nelson and his wife Lisa of Erie, CO, Stephen Roskidany and his wife Sara of Worcester, Daniel Roskidany of Wilton Manors, Florida, and Rebecca Eklund and her husband David of Orange; two great grandchildren, Hannah and Graham Nelson; a sister in law, Florence Ciociolo of Worcester; many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Leo and Eugene DiPilato, as well as a sister, Grace DiBenedetto. Joseph was born in Bari, Italy son of the late Dominic and Vincenza (DiPilato) DiPilato and came to the United States when he was eighteen months old, and his family settled in Worcester. Joseph worked as wire drawer for American Steel and Wire for many years, before he retired. He also made brooms by hand and operated DiPilato Broom Shop. Following his retirement he worked at Spag's Supply in Shrewsbury for many years. Mr. DiPilato was a member of Belmont Street Baptist Church, and of the former Worcester Running Club, where, in his youth, he ran marathons. He was a New York Yankee fan. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His thoughtful kindness will long be remembered. His family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the team of doctors, nurses, and care givers at University Commons, for their loving kindness and care. The funeral for Joseph will be held Friday, August 8, at 10:30 a.m. in Belmont Street Baptist Church, 25 Belmont Street, Worcester. Interment will follow in Hope Cemetery, Worcester. Calling hours will be held Thursday, August 7, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Missions Ministry at Belmont Street Baptist Church, 25 Belmont Street, Worcester, MA 01605.