Anthony R. Mastro

In his 1947 high school year book from Major Howard W. Beal High School the quote beneath Tony Mastro’s name it reads ‘Here is a true…industrious friend’! An active member of his graduating class he was remembered as one of the standbys of his class, always ready with a helping hand. And…long before and long after graduation Tony Mastro was just that kind of guy!

Just this past January on the 12th and the days and events that followed Tony…struggling with the effects of dementia knew in his heart that he had suffered a tremendous loss. His wife of 66 years, Betty had rejoined their son, Billy in heaven.

And while his death on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 came somewhat unexpectedly and swiftly his family knows the Mastro and Ruddy circle once again is complete. He was 90 years old.

Anthony R. Mastro was born May 25, 1929 he was one of thirteen children to the late William F. and Viola (Congahilia) Mastro. Raised in a large family instilled values of helping, sharing and being present for family and friends.  After graduation from Beal High School he enlisted and honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War.

He married Clinton native Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Ruddy on September 7, 1953 in Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Clinton. For 66 years they were each other’s best friend and loyal companion along life’s wonderful journey.

For over 33 years Tony was the guy in uniform who regardless of weather was the dependable and friendly face that ensured on time delivery with everyone’s mail on his charted routes. Residents became friends and street addresses became familiar homes with the people whom he grew to know and love. Even in his years of dementia he could recite a street address with the family name at the house. He loved being a letter carrier.

Never one to shy away from work Tony often worked two to three jobs to support his family. Betty and other Mastro family members worked at Spag’s Supply Co. and after those many years of service to the USPS his birth given talent and passion for food and hospitality enabled him to start a very successful catering business. In early days he worked from his home on Edgemont Road and then later from the kitchen as caterer at very popular establishment The Frohsinn Club on North Quinsigamond Avenue. He knew his way around the kitchen and had a natural ability to manage large crowds and keep everyone gathered more than content with his delicious foods!

The Mastro name, including Tony’s is synonymous with Saint Anne’s Church. It is people and families like the Mastro’s…raised in the Christian tradition of giving who have remained the fabric of the church. Long active at his much loved St. Anne’s Church he was a chair of the Bishop’s Fund, Parish Council member, bingo fundraising chair and always helpful in the kitchen of the Fr. Smith Center.

In addition to his wife, Betty and their son, William who died in 1998 he was the last surviving sibling of the late Mary Driscoll, Margaret Archambo, Helen Zingarelli, Frances Ruggere, Eva Rose, Lena Chenevert, Vincent Mastro, John Mastro, William Mastro, Anna Mastro, Benny Mastro and Elsie Shean.

Celebrating Tony’s long and good life are his children, John A. Mastro (Judie) of Shrewsbury, James V. Mastro (Renee) of Rhode Island, Tammy and Marie Mastro both with whom he lived; his daughter-in-law, Patricia Haddock of Dudley; his grandchildren, Michael (Cristina), Katie, Kevin and James Mastro (Sarah Flagg); his great-grandchildren, Mia, Vince, Arianna, Luca; many nieces and nephews.    

Tony’s family would like to thank the Christopher House especially Tony’s Physician, Dr. Hazzard, his nurses Lynn, Joanne, Martha, Katie, and Bob his CNA, along with the many other nurses and health aides that took such wonderful care of Tony.

Family and friends will honor and remember Tony’s life by gathering for calling hours on Sunday, July 28th from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Mercadante Funeral Home and Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester and again on Monday, July 29, from 9:15 a.m. until 10:15 a.m.,  before leaving in procession to Saint Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Burial is private.

Memorials in Tony’s name may be made to St. Anne’s Christian Service Awards.  Located at 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.