Olinto A. “Willie” Colace 70, of Franklin, passed away peacefully, with family at his side, Friday March 10, 2023 at Alliance Health at Maples, in Wrentham, following an illness.
Born in Santa Maria Del Molise, Italy on May 22, 1952, he and his family immigrated to Franklin in September of 1955. He is the son of Antionetta (Ferrara) Colace and the late Luigi Colace. He is survived by his daughter Karen Colace, his son Matthew Colace and his fiancée Julianne Plausse, and his grandchildren Mia and Rocco Colace, all of Franklin. He leaves behind his sister Alba Arcaro of Montreal and his longtime companion Patricia Alexander and her granddaughter Madeline Alexander of Hopkinton. He is also survived by his beloved Aunt and Uncle Maria and Edward Colace Sr. of Franklin, Cristina Ferrara of Franklin and Maria and Mariangelo Taddeo of Montreal. In addition, Willie leaves many nieces, nephews and cousins he loved dearly, as well as countless friends.
As a child Willie grew up working in his family’s restaurant, The Union Café, also known as “Willie’s”. He later owned and operated the restaurant as an adult with his own family. Serving delicious homemade Italian meals and some of the best pizza in town, it was a place for families to dine comfortably and sported a welcoming bar where everybody knew your name. He was a terrific cook, having learned from his parents, with his specialty being delicious sauces and pizzas. He could usually be found behind the bar, in the kitchen, or at table "zero" playing pitch with the boys. For over a span of forty years the Union Café employed countless family members and friends as cooks, bartenders, wait staff, pizza makers, dishwashers and more. Many happy memories were created here for hundreds of staff and patrons.
Willie was an avid Patriots fan who attended many games over the years. He also loved the sport of boxing and would travel with his buddies to Las Vegas to see the big fights. When he wasn’t at home cooking and caring for his mother he could be found on the beaches of Aruba and Daytona. He had a funny sense of humor and loved the Three Stooges. He was a practical joker and could leave you speechless with his infamous card tricks. He was a kind soul with a big heart and generous beyond words.
Willie was a graduate of Marion High School, class of 1970 and attended Northeastern University. Following his time at the Union Café, Willie worked tirelessly in construction for 13 years. He was also a part time bartender at the former Fifty’s lounge and eventually retired as a prep cook from The Rome restaurant in downtown Franklin.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Monday March 20th, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square Franklin, at 10AM.
Burial will follow at the parish cemetery.
Calling hours are Sunday March 19th, from 2-6PM, at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to the Franklin Food Pantry 43 West Central St. Franklin MA 02038.