Anthony “Tony” Petti Sr., 96, passed away on June 3. He was a lifelong resident of Milford, MA, and the son of the late Leonardo and Marie (DiCanio) Petti. Tony was the loving husband to the late Theresa “Tessie” Petti, whom he missed immensely since her passing in January.
A World War II veteran, Tony was a humble man who appreciated life’s simple pleasures. He looked forward to growing and tending to his garden every year, sharing his prized cucumbers, tomatoes and herbs with his family and friends. He loved his homemade pizza – always accompanied by a tall glass of red wine – and sharing meals around his kitchen table with loved ones. Tony never turned down a trip to the casino and loved the thrill of his daily scratch-off tickets. Despite never “hitting it big” on the lottery, he often reminded his family that he was rich with love.
Tony took pride in his tenured career with the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, modeling a strong work ethic for his five children to emulate. He worked hard, but always made time to enjoy life. In his earlier years, Tony, Tessie and their five children vacationed on Cape Cod every summer, where he would spend the days digging for quahogs on the beach. This tradition was maintained for many years and was one of his fondest memories to recount.
Tony was a pillar of strength to his children and grandchildren. His family always came first, and he loved celebrating everyone’s accomplishments. Nothing made him smile quite like spending time with his great grandchildren, witnessing the wonder of childhood. His love for his family extended to the four-legged members – you would often find Tony with a dog by his chair or on his lap, enjoying each other’s companionship.
Tony’s ultimate companion, his wife Tessie, was the love of his life. Married for nearly 73 years, Tony and Tessie were the centerpiece of their family. They reveled in the good times and carried each other through the hardships. Tony and Tessie demonstrated a love and commitment to one another that will be remembered forever, and their legacy will be everlasting.
Tony is survived by his four daughters, Teresa M. Petti of Beverly Hills, CA, Sandra A. Funk of Uxbridge, MA, Maryellen Mellen and her husband Ronnie of Mendon, MA, Laurie Petti and her fiancé Brian Levey of Mendon, MA, his grandchildren Jade Loop and her husband Tomer DeVito of Beverly Hills, Sesha Loop of Los Angeles, CA, Jordan Petti and his partner Courtney Fisher of Worcester, MA, Leah Steeves and her partner Ian Sheffield of Newport, RI, Anthony Arcudi and his wife Katie of Mendon, MA, Brianna Arcudi and her fiancé Ben Grundy of Smithfield, RI, Michael Petti of Easton, MA, and Jocelyn Jacobs and her husband Evan of Hopedale, MA, his great grandchildren Liv, Tyler and Sage DeVito of Beverly Hills, CA, Sayer Sheffield of Newport, RI, and Eva Arcudi of Mendon, MA, his sister Nancy (Petti) Nogueira of Milford, MA. He also leaves behind his many beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his only son Anthony “Tony” Petti Jr., his son-in-law Robert “Bob” Funk, his son-in-law Robert Loop, and his siblings Leo Petti, Philomena Fullum and Grace Daniels.
Calling hours will be held from 9AM to11AM on Saturday, June 8, 2024, followed by a funeral home service at the Consigli Ruggiero funeral home, 46 Water Street, Milford, MA. The burial will take place at Sacred Heart cemetery in Milford, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association.