Thomas “Gaetano” F. Rotella, 93, of Cranston, passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 peacefully at home surrounded by his loving children. He was the beloved husband for 68 years of the late Marjorie E. (Brothers) Rotella.
Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Joseph B. and Angelina (Iannuccillo) Rotella. Thomas was a graduate of Central High School in Providence. He served in the United States Army from 1942-1946. He worked as a Barber for 25 years and then as a Business Agent for the Barber’s Union for 25 years until his retirement. He was a R.I. Deputy Sheriff and a member of and past commander of American Legion R.I. Post #1. He was a religious man who was a devoted member of St. Matthew’s Church for many years. Thomas was a loving, generous, and caring father who would do anything for his family. He was proud of his Italian heritage and loved to enjoy meals and holidays, especially Christmas Eve, with his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving children: Thomas G. Rotella, RPh. and his wife, Susan (DelBonis) of West Greenwich, Patricia Veloso, Susan Rotella, Linda DiMaio and her husband, David, CFD, and Lisa Doster, all of Cranston. Thomas was pre-deceased by an infant daughter. He was the cherished grandfather of thirteen; and the great-grandfather of nine. He was the brother of Evelyn L. DiStefano of Cranston and the late Rose K. Vessella and Edward C. Rotella.
Funeral from the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. in St. Matthew Church, corner of Elmwood and Park Avenues, Cranston. Burial with Military Honors will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visiting Hours Friday 4-8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 1 Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908 or to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.
Visit nardolillo.com for online condolences.
