John Dipollina Sr.

New London — John Joseph Dipollina Sr., 87, of New London, entered eternal life on Oct. 14, 2017, in the comfort of his loving family. He was born March 25, 1930, in New London, the son of the late Carmelo and Marianna (Barossa) Dipollina. He was united in marriage to the former Kathleen Sullivan on May 4, 1957, in St. Mary Star of the Sea Church. Mrs. Dipollina survives him. John and Kathi happily celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this past May.

Mr. Dipollina was a member of the 1950 Class of Chapman Tech, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and went on to work as a highway foreman for the City of New London until his retirement in 1990, only to continue his second job at Sears Automotive into his 80s. He was the last surviving member of the original Dipollina family to participate in the Feast of the Assumption, and was a member of the New London Lodge of Elks No. 360. John enjoyed his many trips to Florida with Kathi. He was most happiest watching his grandkids at all their sporting events and enjoying his family when they were all gathered together.

Besides his devoted wife, he is survived by three children, Jeffrey (Donna) Dipollina of East Lyme, Susan (Robert) Driscoll of Waterford, and John (Laura) Dipollina Jr. of Waterford . He also leaves behind to cherish his memory and carry on his goodness his grandchildren, Daniel (Lauren), Shane (Bree), MacKenzie (Kyle), Jordan, Dylan, Dante, Whitney, Matthew and Christopher; and one great-grandson, Jack.

He was predeceased by six siblings, Dominic and Angelo Dipollina, Bonita McCormick, Rose and Josephine Montesi and Mary Ogborne.

His family will receive relatives and friends from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Ave., New London. Guests are asked to gather for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. on Wednesday in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 63 Old Norwich Road, Quaker Hill. Interment to follow in St. Mary Cemetery.

John was the quintessential quiet, strong man, who was always there when he was needed. His family wants you all to remember John’s twinkly eyes, his smile, his goodness and kindness.

Donations in his memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Disease Research at www. brightfocus.org/alzheimers, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, MD 208671 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105.