Polizoi Shqina, 90, of Worcester died Friday, March 4th in Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center surrounded by his loving family. He leaves his wife of 60 years, Margarita (Cania) Shqina; his children, Bersan Shqina and his wife, Eva of Worcester, Mirela Thanasi and her husband, Kristaq of Albania, and Edlira Shameti and her husband, Maxi of Albania; a brother, Shpetim Shqina of Albania; five grandchildren, Elena Softa and her husband, Enerk, Margarita Shqina, Joana Thanasi and her husband, Florent Perron, Arthemis Shqina, and Nik Shqina; and a great granddaughter, Sofie Softa.
He was born in Berat, Albania and immigrated to the United States in 2003 after visiting in 2001. Polizoi was a member of St. Mary Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church. Mr. Shqina was a abdominal surgeon for over 40 years, working in different areas around Albania, and helping to open the first surgical clinic in Skrapar. Later, he worked mostly in the military hospital, retiring in 1993. He enjoyed riding his bicycle to the library where he loved reading. Polizoi appreciated the time he spent outdoors specifically gardening and walking. Mr. Shqina loved his family and was involved in all of their activities and was especially close with his grandchildren. He was always the center of the conversation with his jokes and characteristic laugh.
His calling hours are Tuesday, March 8th in St. Mary Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury Street from 9:00 until 11:00 a.m. followed by his funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery.