Ernest A. Bussaglia Sr. 83, a lifelong Franklin resident, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Monday January 10, 2011. He was the husband of the late Florence D. (Carlucci) Bussaglia who died in 1993.
Born in Franklin, February 24, 1927 a son of the late Crescentino and Assunta (DeLucchi) Bussaglia, he was raised and educated in Franklin.
Mr. Bussaglia was a retired self employed paving and landscaping contractor. He owned Ernie’s Asphalt & Paving Company of Franklin.
He left high school before graduation to join the United States Navy during World War II. He served honorably until his discharge in 1946. He attained the rank of seaman first class, and was awarded the American Campaign Ribbon and the World War II Victory Medal. He also received his high school diploma from Franklin High School some 45 years following the end of WWII in a group ceremony held at the high school.
Mr. Bussaglia loved to spend time with his family, and was a longtime summer resident of Oakland Beach in Warwick, and a winter resident of Venice, Florida. He also enjoyed flea markets and antiques.
He is survived by 3 sons; Ernest A. Bussaglia Jr., and Brian A. Bussaglia of Franklin, Richard P. Bussaglia of Bellingham, 2 daughters; Sandra Girard of Franklin, and Susan M. Corr of Minneapolis, MN, 2 sisters; Eileen Bourgery and Norma Dunton of Franklin, 8 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
He was the brother of the late Francis Bussaglia, Mary Padula and Adelaide Vaillancourt.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral with military honors Friday Jan. 15th, at 11:15AM from the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. Franklin www.oterifuneralhome.com, with a funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church 1 Church Sq. at 12noon.
Interment will follow in the family lot at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Calling hours are Thursday from 4-8PM.
If desired, donations in his memory sent to VNA & Hospice of Greater Milford 37 Birch St. Milford, MA 01757 would be appreciated.