Samuel L. Tirella, 79, of Worcester, died Wednesday in the Hermitage Nursing Home.
He leaves 2 sisters, Susan Kneeland (his caretaker) of Worcester and Mary Moore of Longmeadow, 2 brothers, Carmen Tirella of Orlando, and George Tirella of Worcester, and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves his former wife, Cecilia Tirella, and 3 daughters, Rosalie Tirella of Worcester, and Stephanie and Theresa Tirella both of Boston. He was predeceased by 3 brothers, Alfonse, Louis, and Alfred and 2 sisters, Celia and Beatrice.
Mr. Tirella was born in Worcester, son of Samuel and Mary (Paladin) Tirella. He was a self-employed antiques dealer. He was a graduate of Worcester schools and served with the Army Air force during WW2.
Funeral services will be held Saturday from the NORDGREN MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 300 Lincoln Street with a Mass at 10:00 am in Saint Paul's Cathedral, 19 Chatham Street, Worcester. A calling hour will be held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Saturday in the funeral home. Burial will be in Saint John's Cemetery. Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital, Carew Street, Springfield.