Auburn- Joseph J. Shilalie, 83, of Auburn, died Monday, Apr. 26, in his home.
He leaves his wife of 59 years, Charlotte M. (Karbowski) Shilalie; three daughters, Jane M. Coseo of Yarmouthport, Constance M. Surrette of Merrimack, NH, and Carole M. Mercurio of Pembroke; a sister, Virginia Shilalie of Worcester; 4 grandchildren; a great granddaughter; nephews and nieces. He was born in Worcester, son of Gabriel and Marcella (Cesnulis) Shilalie and lived here many years.
Mr. Shilalie was a traffic manager at Washington Mills Abrasives, North Grafton, for more than 20 years. He previously was self-employed.
He was a World War II U.S. Air Force veteran, serving in the Pacific and European Theaters, flying in 98 missions. He earned two Purple Hearts, a Distinguished Flying Cross, and several other medals.
He was a member of Our Lady of Vilna Parish, the Southworks American Legion Post, and the Greendale Retired Mens Club, all in Worcester. He enjoyed flying and had his private pilots license.
The funeral will be held Thursday, Apr. 29, from HENRY-DIRSA FUNERAL HOME, 33 Ward St., Worcester, with a Mass at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Vilna Church, 151 Sterling St., Worcester. Burial will be in Notre Dame Cemetery, Worcester. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Apr. 29, in the funeral home.
Contributions in Joe’s memory may be made to VNA Care Hospice, 120 Thomas St., Worcester, MA 01608.