John D Orrizzi

John “Jack” D. Orrizzi, 76, of Shrewsbury, passed away suddenly at home on Friday, December 20, 2024.

Jack was born in Worcester on April 5, 1948, to Hugo and Julia (Cilia) Orrizzi. He was raised in Shrewsbury and graduated from Shrewsbury High School. Jack earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Rutgers University and then was recruited to work for the U.S. government as a Secret Service field agent. Jack loved his work.  While playing football together at Rutgers, Jack's friend Joseph Barone introduced him to his sister, Antonia. Jack and Antonia married on September 4, 1971, and spent 53 years building a life together, filled with faith, love, and family, first in New Jersey and later in Shrewsbury.

Jack is survived by his devoted wife, Antonia; his two daughters, Gina M. Creamer and her husband Jeffrey, and Angelina M. LaRose and her husband Robert “Bob,” all of Worcester; his grandchildren, Olivia, Tori, Andre, Angelo, and Reece, who were the lights of his life; his sister, Claire Tesar in Arizona; his brother, Edward Orrizzi in Italy.

Jack was a man of strong convictions and unwavering character. Above all, nothing mattered more to him than his family, especially his wife, her siblings of the Barone family, and his grandchildren. His most cherished moments were those spent with them. Jack had a big heart, a sharp sense of humor, and a steady presence that made him a pillar to those around him.

Jack had many interests, including skiing, hunting, horseback riding, and coaching football. He found joy in coaching the youth of Shrewsbury, watching them grow and later was able to coach and watch them play for Shrewsbury High School. Jack also volunteered his time with his son-in-law, coaching the Worcester Cowboys AYF Football team, and rounding out his coaching career with his grandson at South High School. Jack believed that "a testament to one’s character is the people you choose to spend time with." He was fortunate to be surrounded by people he loved, and who loved him in return.

A period of calling hours will be held at St. John’s Church, 40 Temple Street, Worcester on Thursday, January 2nd, 12:00 noon to 1:45 pm followed by mass at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Jack's spirit of generosity, memorial donations may be made to support the academic and athletic activities of the students of South High Community School, 170 Apricot Street, Worcester, MA 01603. The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, is honored to assist the family with arrangements.