John A. D’Aniello 79, of Blackstone and former resident of Franklin, passed away peacefully at his home Friday July 14, 2023. He was the loving husband of the late Agnes L. (Lee) D’Aniello who died in 2015.
He was born October 26, 1943 in Sharon, PA a son of the late Albert and Nila (Roper)D’Aniello.
He was raised in Franklin, MA and attended the Franklin Public Schools where he had many mischievous adventures with his friends and siblings. He then moved to Millville in 1970 where he raised his children, with his loving wife, before moving to Blackstone in 1986.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era. He was a member of the American Legion Post 411.
He co-owned the Caravan Restaurant, which was a staple in the town of Franklin, for many years. He was known by all his patrons and friends for sharing a story, joke, and a smoke. In addition to co-owning the family restaurant, John worked for Lampasona Concrete and was a member of the Local 609 Labors Union.
At home you could find him fixing something, plowing for everyone in the neighborhood, or working in his garden where he was known for sharing his abundant produce. He was known lovingly as Papa to his granddaughter and all her friends. He will be remembered for his weekly Sunday family dinners and hosting all the holidays where he delighted everyone with his culinary expertise and where everyone was welcomed.
John is survived by his children; Christopher J. D’Aniello and his partner Nicole Anderson of Blackstone, Nila E. D’Aniello of Uxbridge, John A. D’Aniello, Jr. of Franklin, and Nadine L. D’Aniello-Carter of Blackstone. He was the brother of Albert A. D’Aniello,Jr. and his wife Theresa of Franklin, M. Carol Szafir and her husband Mike of Port Charlotte, FL, Ronald F. D’Aniello and his wife Teri of North Port, FL, Lawrence E. D’Aniello and his partner Pamela Bodwell of Blackstone, and the late Marsha D.Lussier.
He was the proud and adoring grandfather of Liliana M. Carter, Ava Burbine, and Kayla Anderson and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Friday July 21, 2023 at 9 AM for 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.
Interment with military honors will follow at the parish cemetery.
Calling hours are Thursday from 4-7 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Franklin Lodge of Elks “Oil For Veterans Fund” 1077 Pond Street Franklin, MA 02038.