Pantelis G. Venetis, 84, of Worcester died Sunday, August 5th after a brief illness in the Rose Monahan Hospice Home surrounded by his family. He leaves his wife of 51 years, Vasiliki (Kyriazis) Venetis; his daughter, Katrina Wilkins and her husband, Steven and a grandson, Christopher. He also leaves a sister, Anthoula Zahos and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by five brothers, Anastasi, Elias, Kosta, Theofani, Basili and three sisters, Persephone Capsalis, Eleni and Irini.
Pantelis was born in Selio Vorios Ipiros the son of George and Katerina (Kitsaki) Venetis and was the youngest of 10. At the age of 10 years old he traveled from Ipiros to Greece to begin a new life with his elder sister and aunt. At the age of 22 he traveled to America and has called Worcester, Massachusetts his home from then on. Penny, as he is lovingly known as, began his career at Westborough State Hospital where he became the head chef for 15 years. He then opened Penny’s Pizza in Westborough. Penny’s Pizza became famous for the most amazing home cooked roast beef sandwiches. Data General approached him where he opened in the facility DG Pizzaria for 26 years. The last 18 years have been spent enjoying his retirement cooking and playing cards with his dear friends at the Ahepa House in Worcester. His retirement took him traveling to Greece for the whole summer with his wife and family. His love of family, food, gardening and gathering family has filled our hearts for 84 years!!
He was a member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral and its Senior Center Group, Ahepa and the Epirotiko Society. His kindness and generosity has touched so many lives he will be dearly missed.
His funeral is Wednesday, August 8th with a service at 11:00 AM in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. A calling hour will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St. Spyridon Senior Center, 68 Cedar Street, Worcester, MA 01609 or to St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester, MA 01609.