John T Gentile

John T Gentile, 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by the ones he loved Sunday, January 19, 2020 after a brief period of declining health.   

John was born in Worcester, May 19, 1936, the son of Italian Immigrants Joseph and Margaret (Fiorillo) Gentile.  Raised here in Worcester, John graduated from Commerce high school class of 1954 and joined the U.S. Army serving his country for six years.   John worked in the grocery industry all his life mostly in the meat departments, with a vibrant personality and great smile, John loved the career he chose serving the public for the First National Markets where he met his wife Paula, Argento’s market on Shrewsbury Street, Purity Supreme and  lastly BJ’s in Auburn before retiring.  

The “love of his life” and wife for over 38 years, Paula J. (Dolan) Gentile passed away in 2011.  He is survived by his two children, Karen L. Gentile and her husband Mark Topor of Belchertown; Robert J. Gentile and his partner Elyse Sheck of Worcester; a sister, Mary Ruggieri; four grandchildren that gave him so much joy and laughter, Savannah, Leah, Brayden, and Devin; Many nieces, nephews,  extended family members and friends.  In addition to his wife Paula, a brother, Joseph Gentile, Jr and sister Gloria Rawlston all predeceased him. 

John , always a jokester, who loved life to the fullest, was an active social individual who enjoyed being around people ,especially his grandchildren, family and friends.  His happiest moments were around his grandchildren, watching and enjoying playing with them, whenever he could, they were his life.    John was a member of St Christopher Church, the Post 3, Italian American War Veterans where he could be found daily playing cards, telling a joke or just talking with friends, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Brown Square Civic Club.   He was an avid golfer, enjoying with buddies, such places as Raceway Course in Thompson Connecticut, the Green Hill Course or courses in Melbourne Florida.  John was also a sports fan of the Red Sox and Patriots and loved to watch Old Western movies.  He was a bright light who will be sorely missed. His notable quote that described who he was “Don’t worry about me I’m fine”

A period of calling hours will be held Thursday, January 23, from 9:30 to 11:30 am follow by his funeral service at 11:30 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  Burial alongside his wife Paula with military honors will follow in St John Cemetery.   In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the Italian American War Veterans Post 3, 14 Dublin Ct, Worcester, MA 01605. www.mercadantefuneral.com