Pietrina M. Tocco, 91, known as “Pat” to her friends and “Pete” to her closest family, passed away in Newburyport, with her daughters Lisa J. DiFronzo and Anita M. Coons, both of West Newbury, by her side, on April 14th.
Pat grew up in Boston’s North End and later became a lifelong resident of Medford where she raised her family, Patricia A. McLarnon, Andrew J. DiFronzo, Anita, Stephen M. DiFronzo, and Lisa. She retired from the Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Medford after 28 years of service in the emergency department. Pat could be seen daily in her pink uniform, and her quick step earned her the nickname of “Speedy” by her co-workers. Pat was the last child in her family having lost her twin brother whom she cherished, Jimmy/Vinny “JV” Tocco in May 2016. She was a very social and compassionate woman offering help to anyone in need and enjoyed her wide circle of friends. Pat was a generous woman who most of all, loved her children. She also is survived by many nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Pat’s son Stephen M. DiFronzo of Methuen predeceased her on March 12, 2017. Stephen suffered from cancer and fought his disease as fiercely and bravely as any man on the battlefield. Stephen worked in Biotech where he earned a reputation for his reliability and “can do” approach and philosophy. Never one to complain about anything, Stephen aggressively faced his cancer until his last breath. Stephen’s private cremation service was attended by his sisters Anita and Lisa, who were also at his side at the time of his passing. Stephen’s uncanny wit, good heart, and warm smile will be forever remembered and missed.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD Wednesday, April 19th from 8-11AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, 118 High St., Medford at 11:30AM. Services will conclude with entombment at Holy Cross Mausoleum, Malden.