Michael Vito Gilardi, a Medford resident for fifty years, and formerly of Boston’s North End, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, July 4th at the Winchester Hospital. He was 82.
Born in Boston, he was raised in the North End and was the son of the late Gregorio and Angelina (Teseriero) Gilardi. After graduating from high school, Michael continued his education and earned his associates degree. He was a dental technician and enjoyed his career helping others. After his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He spent much of his time with organizations within the church. Michael was a Third Order Franciscan in Boston, president of the Holy Name Society and an active member of the St. Mark’s society. When the threat of closing Sacred Heart Church was made, Michael was instrumental in keeping it open.
In his spare time, he enjoyed ballroom dancing with his wife Carmela, watching the Red Sox and gardening tomatoes. Michael was also a gifted chef and could make anything. His signature dish was chicken, broccoli and pasta. He was a beloved husband, devoted father, loving grandfather and great grandfather and a dear brother. His kind and loving personality will be missed by many.
Michael was the beloved husband of Carmela (DiPrima) Gilardi, with whom he shared sixty loving years of marriage and the devoted father of Gregory Gilardi and his wife Donna of Shirley. Michael was the loving grandfather of Michael Gilardi of Shirley and Samantha Gilardi of Medford and the loving great grandfather of William Cowling of Melrose. He was the dear brother of Santana (Anna) Puopolo and her husband Charles of Woburn, and is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his sisters Calogera Locinto and Angelina D’Amato.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD, Monday, July 10th from 4 through 8PM and may also visit with the family on Tuesday, July 11th at Sacred Heart Church, 12 North Sq., Boston, 9 to 10AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated at 10AM. Services will conclude with interment at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in Michael's name to Saint John School, 9 Moon Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02113