Frederick Raymond Vitali, 88, a long-time resident of both Framingham and Natick, passed away February 15, 2014 at St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham. Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late Aldo and Dora (Tognacci) Vitali. He is survived by his loving wife Mary A. (Pelullo) of 63 years. He was the beloved father of three children, Fred and his wife Martha of Holliston, Michael and his wife Nanette of Ashland, and Andrea (Upham) and her husband Chuck of Ashland, and beloved “Nonno” to six grandchildren, Victoria Vitali of Holliston, Dylan, Nicole and Marisa Vitali of Ashland, and Lauren and Travis Upham of Ashland. He is the brother of Irene Wachowicz of No. Providence, RI, Diana Carey of Framingham, and the late Norma Hutton of Framingham. He is also survived by many special nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Fred grew up in the Coburnville section of Framingham and was a graduate of Framingham High School and Becker College and also attended Northeastern University. Immediately after graduating high school he joined the Army and served in WW II from 1943 to 1946. As a member of the 106th infantry he was deployed to the European Theatre and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. Fred began his career as an Accountant at General Motors in Framingham. From GM he moved to Raytheon Company where he spent the remainder of his professional career as Contracts Manager of the Missile Systems Division. He was blessed with a wonderful staff, colleagues and friends with whom he worked until his retirement from Raytheon in 1987.
Fred loved being surrounded by his family and friends. He was abundantly proud of his Italian heritage and loved all things Italian. Well known for his quick wit and lively personality, he was called upon to be the master of ceremonies for many a social gatherings. He enjoyed extensive international travel over the years for both business and pleasure. In his early retirement years he especially loved golfing, relaxing by the pool, Foxwoods excursions with his wife and visiting with old friends at The Columbus Club in Framingham, where Keno was an afternoon ritual.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral on Thursday, February 20th at 9:00 AM from the John Everett & Sons Funeral Home, 4 Park Street at Natick Common followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Patrick’s Church in Natick at 10:00 AM.
Visiting hours in the funeral home are Wednesday, February 19th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.
Interment St. Patrick Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Framingham Heart Study, 73 Mt. Wayte Avenue, Framingham, MA 01702.