MATTEO DiLULLO

Born in Vairano Patenora in the Province of Caserta, Italy, Matteo came to the U.S. at age 14 with some of his siblings to join their father, who had been building a life for their family in America. He arrived without his mother and without speaking a word of English, carrying nothing but grit and heart. Matteo went on to serve over 30 years as a bricklayer in the Mason Department at Weirton Steel Mill before building a second life in Florida, where his presence lit up every bocce court, shuffleboard match, card game, and dance floor he stepped onto.

Matteo was a man of backbone, gratitude, and unmistakable charm. He spoke through homemade spaghetti and slow- simmered sauce, expressed love by showing up, and never missed a moment to crack a one-liner. He lived with generosity and made sure to look sharp no matter where he was going.

He is survived by his children Maria, Matthew, Monica, and Mark; seven grandchildren; three great- grandchildren; and his beloved companion Paula who brought him love, laughter and happiness for the last five years of his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cosmo and Maria Geremia DiLullo; his siblings Vittoria, Patsy, Madeline, and Angelo; and his wives Ruby DiLullo and Nancy DiLullo.

Those who knew him best would say he lived to love, and loved to live.