Gerald T. Massarelli

Gerald T. Massarelli, 90, of Southington, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Hospital of Central Connecticut at New Britain General. He was the beloved husband of Geraldine (Rungi) Massarelli.

Born on July 28, 1934 in Jersey City, New Jersey, he was the son of the late Albert and Helena (Giordano) Massarelli. A proud veteran and paratrooper during the Korean War, Gerald served with the U.S. Army, honoring his country with dedication and bravery.

Gerald's professional life was centered around his passion for food and service. Following a 25-year career with Metlife as an Insurance Agent, he owned and operated his own catering business, where his hard work and commitment to excellence earned him the respect and admiration of many in the community. He was also a longtime parishioner of St. Dominic Church and an active member of the American Legion Post 72 and the Southington Elks.

Beyond his career, Gerald was a man of many talents. He was a gifted artist, painting in oils and acrylics. He enjoyed singing, woodworking, playing cards and coaching baseball. Gerald’s love of coaching and serving the town is memorialized in the Massarelli Senior League field on Woodruff street and his induction in the Southington Sports Hall of Fame.

More than anything else, Gerald will be remembered for the incredible love he had for his family. His life and love will be forever etched into the hearts of his family.

Gerald is survived by his children, Sharon Duclos, Jan Verderame and her husband James, Michael Massarelli, and Anthony Massarelli, all of Southington; six grandchildren, Samantha Plourde, Joseph Duclos, Jessica Zita, Michael Zita, Lauren Forgione, and Holly Massarelli; and four great-grandchildren, Ella, David, Jack Forgione, and Colton Massarelli. He is also survived by his sister, Rae Rudzinski of Bristol, as well as many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory. Gerald was predeceased by his siblings, Thomas Massarelli, Marie Rodgers, and Frances Fruchtenicht. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Gerald's legacy of kindness, creativity, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Dominic Church, 1050 Flanders Rd., Southington. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery. Calling hours will be prior to the Mass from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at the DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St., Southington. For online condolences and directions please visit, www.dellavecchia Southington.com