Vito M. “Champ” DiTaranto, 84 of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 20, 2011 in the St. Francis Home surrounded by his loving family.

Vito’s beloved wife and best friend of sixty-one years, Theresa F. (Capalbo) DiTaranto passed away on August 24, 2011. He is survived by a brother, Peter P. DiTaranto and a sister, Rose Dipilla; two granddaughters, Angela M. DiTaranto and Maria L. (DiTaranto) Gray and her husband Sean; two great granddaughters, Julianna and Gabriella Gray; a daughter-in-law, Susan M. DiTaranto all of Worcester; many nieces, nephews, cousins and in laws. He is predeceased by, a son, Angelo V. DiTaranto; four brothers, Vincent, Angelo, Joseph and Frank DiTaranto; two sisters, Ida Gingerelli and Rose Marie Robinson.

Vito was born in Worcester, son of the late Michael and Elizabeth (Perrone) DiTaranto and has lived here all his life. Vito was a member of the U.S. Army, serving his country during WWII. Vito worked for Nstar for many years before his retirement. He was a member of the Froshin Club, Plantation Street Club, and the Brown Square Civic Club. Vito was an amateur boxer, which is where his nickname “Champ” came from. He enjoyed traveling and dancing with his wife. He also loved gardening and walking down Lake Park to socialize. Vito and Theresa were lovingly dedicated and devoted to their grandchildren. Vito will be remembered by his great sense of humor and brightening smile that lives on in his great granddaughter. The family would to like to express their gratitude to the kind and caring staff at St. Francis Nursing Home for their compassionate care and tireless efforts in caring for Vito and Theresa.

Vito’s service will be held on Saturday, November 26, 2011 from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Stephen’s Church, 357 Grafton St., Worcester. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. A period of calling hours will be held on Saturday morning, November 26th from 8:30-9:30 a.m. in the funeral home prior to the Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Alzheimer’s Association , P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.