Anthony 'Sam" Picariello

Of Newton, passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at the Massachusetts General Hospital. He was 78.

Born June 19, 1938 in Newton to the late Joseph and Josephine (Battaglino) Picariello, he was a life long resident of Newton. He was a 1956 graduate of Newton High School, he also took classes at Aquinas College and Mass Bay Community College.

Mr. Picariello honorably served in the United States Air Force during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Sam worked as a Waltham Firefighter for many years until his retirement in 1981. He was also an E.M.T. Before becoming a Firefighter, Sam worked as a mechanic for Abbott Ford in Waltham.

Affectionately known by his neighbors as the "Mayor of Nightcaps Corner", Sam was a cofounder of the Nightcaps Corner Association, and was an advocate for his neighborhood.

Sam was very handy, and enjoyed fixing things around the house, he loved to eat and to try new restaurants, and enjoyed following politics. Most of all Sam was a dedicated family man. He will be remembered by family and friends for his sense of humor and his quick wit.

He is survived by his loving wife Donna (Landry), and his devoted sons Joseph Picariello of Newton, Mark Picariello and his wife Sabrina (Mola) of Wayland, and Gregory Picariello and his wife Felicia (Ferdinand) of Newton. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Arianna, Anthony, Nicholas, William, and Marissa.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend funeral services from the Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody St., WALTHAM, Wednesday at 9 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Bernard's Church, 1523 Washington St., Newton at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Newton Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Parking attendants will be on duty.