WILLIAM GERARDI

     William “Billy” Gerardi, 93, a long time Shrewsbury resident died peacefully but unexpectedly Friday June 24, in the UMASS Medical Center after becoming ill at home. His wife of 44 years Helen A. (Ghiatis) Gerardi died in 1995, and his beloved daughter Shirley Kennedy died in 2003. Billy is survived by his loving granddaughters, twins, Tammy Kennedy-Santy and her husband Raymond, and Nicole Kennedy- Benoit and her husband Steven, and six great grandchildren, Helen, Sean, and William Pinkham, and Amy, Tracy, and Kerry DesRuisseaux, and nephews and nieces. Billy was more like a father to Tammy and Nicole, he helped Shirley raise these young ladies after their father passed away at an early age, and then their Mom. Billy was their rock and they were his rock also.

William was born in Worcester son of the late Peter and Mary (Gabriella) Gerardi and lived in Shrewsbury most of his life. Bill was the founder and owner of the Gerardi Construction Company before he retired. He was a graduate of Commerce High School, and served his Country proudly in the United States Air Force during WWII. Bill was the last of his family from that “Greatest Generation”, he was predeceased by his brothers, Frank, Charles, John, Patsy, and James Gerardi, and a sister Philomena Damato.

Billy was a long time member of the Victor Quaranta Post in Shrewsbury, the American Legion Post 201 in Worcester, and the Brown Square Civic Club. He was a former member of the Church of St. Anne. Billy and Helen enjoyed traveling and especially their trips to Florida, however his most treasured times were with his family, especially the time he spent with his great grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

William’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday June 29, at 11:00AM in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family from 9:00AM until the time of the service at 11:00AM on Wednesday. Interment with his wife Helen will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. Anne’s Human Services, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, Ma. 01545.