Anthony T. Ricardi

Anthony T. “Tony” Ricardi, 41 of Oxford, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 leaving a hole behind for all that loved him.

Tony was born in Southbridge and grew up in Charlton where he was a graduate of Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School, Class of 1999. Tony worked as a property restoration specialist and took pride in every project he completed.

Tony, “Rico” to many, was a longtime presence on the softball field, making countless friends from the many teams and leagues he had played on throughout the years. It was a sport he loved and no matter his age, was always excited to play. Tony lovedfishing every opportunity he had, especially at Quabbin Reservoir, where he was always trying to make his next big catch. He enjoyed golf and prided himself on his long drive. Tony spent his weekends puttering in the yard, using his tools to build projects and watching his favorite teams, the Patriots or the Bruins. Tony had the gift of gab and could make friends wherever he went and could always be counted on for a witty or sarcastic comment. He was proud to be Italian and loved his big extended family. Tony especially would spend every free moment he could to ride the open road and feel the wind on his face on his Harley Davidson.

Above anything else, Tony’s greatest joys were his children, Luca and Lia. He would spend hours playing street hockey, football or baseball with Luca, his best “bud”, or cheering on the Bruins. He would always color with his “peanut”, Lia, and was even a good sport to wear a little makeup every now and again.

Tony leaves behind his wife of 9 years, Debra A. (Polansky) Ricardi, their beloved children, Luca and Lia; his mother and step-father, Patricia A. (Collins) and Douglas Dubrule of New Braintree, MA; step-brother Brandon Dubrule; his father and step-mother, David A. and Susan Ricardi of South Yarmouth; step-siblings, Kendal and Cole Ledford; his brother, Joseph D. Ricardi and his wife Megan of Charlton; niece and nephews, Joseph, Sydney and Julian Ricardi; his maternal grandfather, Sydney Collins of New Braintree; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Peter and Bridget Polansky; his sister-in-law, Alison Polansky and her fiancé, Thomas Travers; niece Taylor Travers; countless aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.  He is predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Pauline Collins and his paternal grandparents, Thomas and Teresa (Giordano) Ricardi.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, February 9, 2023 from 4-7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester.  His funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 10th at 11 am at St. Roch Church, 332 Main St., Oxford (PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO CHURCH).  Burial will be held privately and at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making donations in his name to: The Luca and Lia Ricardi Children’s Fund at Bank Hometown.