Anthony M. Spalatro

Anthony M. “Tony” Spalatro, 77, a retired City of Worcester Fire Captain of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, November 9, 2025, after complications from a 2017 spinal cord injury. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Tony was born in Worcester, the son of the late Michael and Philomena R. (Giovanelli) Spalatro. He grew up in Worcester, graduated from North High School, and later earned his bachelor’s degree from Worcester State College, where he eventually met his wife.

He joined the Worcester Fire Department on September 14, 1980, and was first stationed at Engine 14. Throughout his career, he served at various stations across the city, most notably Rescue 1, where he spent the majority of his years. Tony was promoted to Lieutenant in 2003 and to Captain in 2007, retiring from Engine 12 in 2012. During his more than three decades of service, he built countless lifelong friendships and shared an unbreakable brotherhood with his fellow firefighters—bonds that remained strong long after his retirement.

Tony worked hard his entire life, dedicated to providing for his family and supporting his three children through college. A true family man, he was always there for them with guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love—a steady presence they could count on every day.

Tony was an avid golfer, a lifelong New York Yankees fan, and loved the game of baseball. He played baseball in high school and college, and that passion stayed with him his entire life. When his grandchildren were little, he loved tossing balls to them in the yard, teaching them how to stand just right and swing the bat—a love of the game that began with him, and one they will carry on in his memory.

Tony took great joy in his gardening and yardwork, especially his masonry projects, and even built his own waterfall in the backyard, a labor of love that became a favorite gathering spot for family and friends. He also had a true talent for cooking and was known for preparing delicious meals both at home and at the firehouse, where he was as appreciated for his cooking as he was for his leadership and good humor. His lemon chicken, in particular, was a longtime favorite that everyone remembered and requested. Christmas Eve was his favorite holiday, celebrating Italian Christmas and frying the fish with his family—a tradition he cherished and made special every year. Even after his injury, he guided his family in the kitchen, ensuring the Christmas Eve feast continued just the way he loved it.

The heart of Tony’s strength came from his beloved wife of 52 years and best friend, Elizabeth “Betsy” (Poland) Spalatro. Through every hardship, Betsy stood faithfully by his side, caring for him, lifting his spirits, and giving him the will to keep going through these past eight years.

He was also blessed with an extraordinary group of lifelong friends—his true backbone and unwavering support system. Tony often said, “I have the best friends in the world,” and their devotion proved it. They stood by him through all of life’s ups and downs, celebrating the good times and helping him face the hard times with humor, loyalty, and love.

Above all else, Tony cherished the time he spent with his six grandchildren. Whether it was cheering them on at games, sharing stories, or simply being together, they were his greatest joy. Even after his injury, he remained deeply involved in their lives, offering love, laughter, and strength that will forever guide them.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Betsy” (Poland) Spalatro; his son, Sgt. Michael Spalatro, WPD, and his wife, Joanna, of Spencer; two daughters, January Oliva and her husband, David, of Boxford, and Gina De Andrade and her husband, Jeff, of Burlington; his sister, Lucille Stankus and her husband, Stephen, of Worcester; six cherished grandchildren, Ava and Jax De Andrade, Edie and Ivy Oliva, and Lennon and Anthony Spalatro; his sisters- and brothers-in-law, Sharon Seale and her husband, Nathaniel, and Frederick “Ricky” Poland and his wife, Jody; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and close friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 14, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Road, Shrewsbury. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a donation in Tony’s memory to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, 636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078 (www.christopherreeve.org), or to Why Me & Sherry’s House, 1152 Pleasant Street, Worcester, MA 01602 (www.whyme.org).