Bx. rites for slain wiseguy
The reputed mobster who was greased outside a Bronx McDonald’s last week — and walked away from at least two previous attempts on his life — was remembered Tuesday as a loving family man who doted on his grandkids and loved doo-wop music.
Nearly 300 people turned up at the Church of St. Theresa of the Infant Jesus in Pelham Bay to bid farewell to Sylvester Zottola, 71, who had been an alleged associate of the Luchese crime family.
“There are many articles you can read,” said the Rev. Thomas Derivan at the service held a few blocks from Zottola’s home. “But you are the genuine article of what a father, grandfather and a true man should be.”
The priest praised Zottola as a “generous individual” and celebrated him as the “patriarch of his family.”
Zottola was eulogized by his daughter Debbie and his sons Anthony and Salvatore — the latter an alleged mob associate who was the target of a failed hit in July.
“He said, ‘If the day comes, bring me to church,’ ” Salvatore, 41, recalled. “You were my Superman. I love you more than you’ve even known.”
He also read a love letter his mother had penned before her death 30 years ago.
“I love you so very much,” the letter read. “You put everything on hold for me. Please love and protect our children. Love them with yourself. Don’t ever give up. We’ll make our happiness go on and on forever.”
A tearful Salvatore also had a message for his late mother.
“Mom, he took care of us. So please take care of him,” he said.