Walter E. Depretto

West Springfield - Walter Edward DePretto (Dad, Grampy, Boppi), 89, passed away Thursday, June 25, 2015 at Mercy Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 5, 1926 in Springfield, MA to the late Mary (Framarin) and Eugenio DePretto. He was predeceased by his sister Lillian Higgins. Walter was a graduate of Springfield Trade High School and Suffield Academy. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star. After his service to his country, he was employed by The Prudential Insurance Company and retired after 32 years. Walter was an avid fisherman, wood carver, and known for his famous Grampy's Spices. In addition to his hobbies, he enjoyed giving back to his community through volunteerism. He served on, and was president of The Council on Aging, was a member of the VFW and volunteered at the West Side Senior Center. He also belonged to and was President of the F.O.R.M. Club and was a communicant at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in West Springfield. Walter was a loving man who treasured time with his family. He leaves behind the love of his life and wife of 65 years, Gerry M. (Forgue). Together they raised and adored six children, Catherine Bussolari and her husband Jack of Longmeadow, Susan Majka and her husband Frank of Wilbraham, Mary Mathews and her late husband John of Delaware, Ann Calabrese and her husband Joseph of West Springfield and Christine Carpenter-Gleason and her husband Peter of Whately. He was predeceased by his son Walter DePretto Jr. who left behind his wife Donna. He smiled daily thinking of his 16 grandchildren and was additionally blessed with 10 great-grandchildren. Calling hours will be Sunday, June 28 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at TOOMEY-O'BRIEN FUNERAL HOME, 1043 Westfield Street, West Springfield. Services will be held Monday, June 29, 9:00 AM at the funeral home and 10:00 AM at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 47 Pine Street, West Springfield, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at St. Michael's Cemetery. Sadly, Walter was also predeceased by his granddaughter Lisa M. Calabrese. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Walter�s name may be made to Lisa�s Light of Hope, PO Box 72, Feeding Hills, MA 01030 or to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 577 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.