Louis A. Centrella, a life-long Medford resident and retired Health Inspector, died Monday at Courtyard Nursing Care Center. He was 85.
Born and raised in Medford, he was the son of the late Gaetano and the late Margaret (Imbriano) Centrella.After World War II, Lou opened the first driving school in Medford, Medford Auto School, which he operated for many years. Active in Medford’s political affairs for decades, Louis served as a Justice of the Peace and Constable for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For many years Lou was a popular salesman at several local auto dealerships, including Bellotti Olds. and Walton Buick. For 30 years Lou managed Celeste Apartments, on the Fellsway. He also worked as an assistant funeral director at the Dello Russo Funeral Home. Louis completed his years of work as an inspector for Medford’s Board of Health.
He was the beloved husband of the late Ruth A. (Lucier). He was the father of Louis Centrella of Newburyport and Judy Foppiano of Billerica. He was grandfather to 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He was the brother of Anthony Centrella, Guy Centrella, Mildred Garneau all of Medford and the late Marion Armstrong, Rose, Anna and Virginia. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.
Friends may visit Thursday 4 - 8 at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford.A Funeral mass will be celebrated in the Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant Street, Malden, Friday at 9 AM. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.