Alfred “Al” Cancelli, Jr., died peacefully on May 1, 2018.

Al is predeceased by his father, Alfred Cancelli, Sr., his mother, Emmi Brasche, his brother, Steven Cancelli of Worcester, MA and his lifelong friend and companion, Marie “Ricki” Hayden of Stoneham, MA.

Al is survived by his sister in law, Marie Cancelli of Worcester; a nephew and two nieces, David and Karen Cancelli, and Lisa Cancelli.

Al graduated from North High School, class of 1950, and joined the United States Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Leyte until 1955.

Al’s career in the airline industry spanned 37 years, beginning at Worcester Regional Airport with Northeast Airlines where he quickly advanced to management roles in Miami and New York, retiring in 1992 as a Reservations Trainer and Supervisor for Delta Airlines in Boston. Passionate about travel, Al shared wonderful stories of his adventures from all over the world. A long time devotee of Julia Childs, Al enjoyed cooking and entertaining with friends and family, was an avid supporter of the performing and visual arts, loved animals and spending time in nature. Al will be fondly remembered in his own words, “a genial manner makes life’s journey smooth.”

A Memorial Service for Al will be on Tuesday, May 22, at 7 p.m., preceded by a time of visitation from 6 p.m. until the service begins at MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  Interment at Worcester County Memorial Park in