Thomas J Oliveri

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a Worcester Business owner, splendid husband, father and grandfather, Thomas J. Oliveri, 81, on January 28th, 2024, with loved ones gathered at his bedside after battling a brief illness and complications from Leukemia.

Tom was born in Worcester, the son of Joseph N. and Marie (Simone) Oliveri. Raised on Plantation St, Tom graduated from Commerce High school and New England School of Accounting. He began his employment as General Manager of the former United and Butler Chevrolet, soon after beginning a food service empire opening the flagship location Elsa’s Bushel N Peck, on Chandler Street in Tatnuck Square, later on Main St and one on East Mountain Street at the Summit. Tom then proceeded to establish Peppercorns on Park Ave in Worcester, Prezo’s in Milford, and Oli’s in West Boylston. He nurtured his businesses day in and day out right up until the end alongside his sons.

Tom is survived by the “love of his life” and best friend Elsa (Jacobson) Oliveri whom he married in 1964. They spent the next 60 years together, always side by side, raising their family with love and devotion. He also leaves behind two sons, Thomas M. Oliveri and his wife Beth of Shrewsbury, Jon M. Oliveri and his wife Kimberly of Boylston; a sister, Cheryl F. Oliveri of Grafton; eight grandchildren he was so proud of and found so much joy with, Alexandra and her husband Michael Dunham, Ashley, Matthew, Christopher, Jordyn, Maria, and Jenna, step grandson Alexander Thomas and the newest addition, great granddaughter, Blakely. He also left behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was predeceased by both of his parents and his brother Joseph M. Oliveri.

Tom was the patriarch of his family. He loved social gatherings varying from weekly lunches with friends, a birthday party or a grandchild’s sporting event. When he walked into the room, everyone knew he was there. Whether it was his laughter or the booming sound of his voice asking for a cold drink “with ice on the side” or something to eat to go along with it. Nothing made him more proud than having his children and grandchildren around him. Whether it was the holidays, special occasions, nights out to dinner, or vacation where they could be together. Tom had a love for racing horses, and at one time had some of his own. Elsa and Tom loved to travel to Palm Beach Gardens in Florida where they spent their winters for many years. He had a love for playing Keno and going to the casino on Sunday afternoons 

A period of calling hours will be held Monday, February 5th from 10 am to 11:30 am followed by his funeral Mass at 11:30 am in St Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd, Shrewsbury. Burial in Mt View Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to St. Peter’s Church Food Pantry, 929 Main Street, Worcester. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to be assisting the Oliveri family once more.