Sturbridge: Paul D. Gervasi, 86, of Pleasant Parkway, formerly of Clemence Hill Rd., Southbridge, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, Sept. 27th, in UMass Memorial Hospital - Harrington, after a brief illness.  His beloved wife of 56 years, Rita E. (Fortin) Gervasi died in 2015.  He leaves his daughter, Paula A. Kenda and her husband Kerry of Sturbridge; his son, Daniel P. Gervasi and his wife Lynn of Southbridge; his five grandchildren, Jaclyn M. Crosby and her husband Jeffrey of Leesburg, VA, Carissa L. Bloom and her husband Jeffrey of Plantation, FL, Jennifer L. Ide of Plaistow, NH, Julia Gervasi of Fort Worth, TX; Joshua R. Gervasi of Mesa, AZ; a great granddaughter, Evelyn Grace Crosby and many nieces and nephews.

He was born in Southbridge and served honorably in the US Army during Korea.  Paul worked for 30 years as a toolmaker at A&M Tool and Die in Southbridge before retiring.  He previously worked as a toolmaker for Pratt and Whitney.  Paul was a handyman and was always willing and able to help out a friend who needed anything or just advice.  In retirement Paul worked for several years at the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home where he grew friendships and helped others with his compassion.  He was a member of St. Mary's Church in Southbridge, the Optimist Club in Southbridge, the Central Mass Wanderers Car Club and the Italian Club in Southbridge.  Paul thought of these groups as more than just a meeting place, they were his family.  Paul and Rita enjoyed teaching ceramics and owned and operated Pandy Ceramics for over 35 years.  He enjoyed taking rides on his Harley Davidson motorcycle with his wife Rita, fishing with his son Dan and family outings.  Paul enjoyed their trips to Lake George and spending time with friends but above all he loved his family and cherished his time with them.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, Oct 4th, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a Mass at 11:00am in St. Mary's Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 263 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Calling hours in the funeral home will be held on Monday, Oct 3rd, from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Central Mass Wanderers c/o Treasurer, 35 Quinebaug Ave., Putnam, CT 06260 or to the Southbridge Italian Club, 20 North St., Southbridge, MA 01550.