Albert J. Romano, Jr. 79, of Worcester formerly of Leominster, a 30 year educator and Principal in the Fitchburg Public Schools passed away peacefully, Monday June 3rd 2013 with his dearly loved family by his side.
     Albert was born in Fitchburg, one of three sons born to Italian immigrants Albert J. Romano, Sr. and Margaret (Samatarro) Romano. He grew up in Fitchburg, graduated from Fitchburg High School class of 1952. He then chose to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Business and U.S. Army Commission as a second lieutenant from Norwich University in Northfield Vermont, class of 1956. He then entered the U.S. Army serving with the 2nd Armor Division. He returned to Fitchburg, stayed in the U.S. Army Reserve at Ft. Devens, leaving reserve service as a Captain. He continued his education at Fitchburg State College, earning a degree in Education. Albert then accepted a position in the Fitchburg school system where he worked as a teacher and principal for over 30 years before retiring in 1989. He taught at Hosmer Elementary, South Street Elementary and was elevated to Principal of West Fitchburg Elementary. He never found comfort as Principal, and with a longing for his young students, Al resigned his position and returned to the classroom where he found his greatest joy and fulfillment.
     Al’s first wife Carol Ann (O’Keefe) Romano, passed away in 1991; He then met and married again in 2000 the wife he would share the next 13 years with, Linda V. (Carlson) Romano and moved to Worcester where he has lived ever since. Al is survived by the loves of his life; his wife, Linda; daughter, Paula J. Cuddy, her husband, Brian and their son, Jack, all of Milford; two brothers, Richard Romano of Fitchburg and David of Peabody and Sarasota, FL; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
     Al was active in his community and organizations, was a member of St. George’s Church, the Massachusetts Teacher’s Association (MTA), the Worcester Lodge of Elks #243, the Leominster Knights of Columbus Council 99, the Greendale Retired Men’s Club and YMCA, The Holden Towers Tennis Club, and the Leominster Sportsman Club. Al and Linda were great supporters of Al’s Alma Mater, Norwich University. A member of the NU Alumni Association, the NU Central Mass Chapter, NU Partridge Society and a member of the NU Old Guard “Those Alumni graduating more than 50 years prior”. Al enjoyed playing tennis, working in his yard, buying new cars every few years, and helping others. His wife, grandson, family and friends are what gave Al the greatest satisfaction. Just being around and with them gave him his inspiration and life’s joy.
     Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday, June 6th from 4 p.m to 7 p.m in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Friday, June 7th from the funeral home with a procession to St. George’s Church, 40 Brattle St. where his Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. Flowers may be sent to Mercadante Funeral Home or memorial contributions may be made to the Romano Scholarship fund, care of Norwich University, I.D. White Rd, Northfield, VT 05663.