November 29, 1923 – April 29, 2022

Vito Vaccaro of Somerville, quietly passed away on April 29, 2022, he was 98. Born in Boston, he was the son of Annie (Palmieri) and Filippo Vaccaro. Vito is survived by the love of his life and wife of 77 years, Josephine (Della Piana) Vaccaro and his sister Frances Marotta. His sister Rose Nazzaro predeceased him. He will be missed by his children Vivian Nelson and her husband Bill, Phil Vaccaro and his wife Dottye, Nick Vaccaro and his wife Tonna and Joanne Vaccaro and his devoted grandchildren, Eric Nelson and Marie Maffei, Scott and Rashmi Nelson, Karen and Tom Morrissey, Philip and Michele Vaccaro, Craig and Amber Vaccaro, Tara and Hal Gudmundsen, Tonna Vaccaro, Nicholas and Hope Vaccaro. Vito is survived by many loving great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Vito was devoted to his family. His goal was to live one day longer than his beloved Josephine, so that he could take care of her til the end. Sadly that is one goal he did not accomplish. He and Josephine were role models as parents, an opinion often shared by their nieces. Into their 90s, they were the best dancers on the floor, for all to admire. Vito created awesome, loving memories for his family, organizing camping trips, touring national sites and simply spending time at the ball park.

Vito worked many 2nd and 3rd jobs to provide for his young family and retired from General Electric after 45 years.

He proudly served his country and community. He was in the US Navy Submarine Service during World War II, stationed in Key West, FL. He served his community as a little league coach, Boy Scout leader and member of St. Polycarp’s Men’s Club.

Vito was elected to the Somerville School Committee, Board of Alderman and was appointed to the Liquor Licensing Board where he was an active participant until the age of 92. For all of his service and commitment, the corner of Fremont and Main Streets in Somerville is named Vito Vaccaro Square.

Funeral Procession from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Square) Somerville on Monday, May 16th at 9AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Catherine of Genoa Church, 185 Summer Street, Somerville at 10AM. Relatives and friends invited to attend.

Calling Hours in the funeral home, Sunday, May 15th from 3PM – 6PM.

Services will conclude with Military Honors and Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Vaccaro’s name can be made to All Care Hospice, 210 Maple Street, Lynn, MA 01901 or to a charity of one’s choice.