We just heard the sad news that Joe Perdoni, Jr., the ex-Wellesley High football player with the big, friendly personality and owner of Old School Italian Pizzeria on Washington St, passed away suddenly yesterday morning after feeling unwell the night before. Perdoni was in his late 30s, and is survived by his wife Sarah and two young children. They lived in Sherborn.
The long-time Wellesley-ite, and pizza purveyor who opened Old School in 2011, was known for lending a helping hand to adjacent businesses whenever they needed some extra refrigerator space or just some muscle to move a heavy item.
That and for the pizza. Back in 2010, when Hunnewell School kids were wondering where their next early release-day slice and a soda was coming from after the closing of College Square Pizza, Perdoni breezed in and made it all better. He spruced up the joint, injected a dose of fun with 1950s tunes and old-timey memorabilia on every square inch of wall and ceiling space, and welcomed all lovers of not just pizza, but wings, chicken tenders, sandwiches, and wraps.
For now, the restaurant is closed, as the sign on the door notes.
Our sympathy to Joe’s family and friends. Feel free to share your thoughts in our comments or on our Facebook page, where dozens have commented.
Funeral from the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St. (RT. 16) Wellesley, Tuesday May 19, at 9AM followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Paul Church, Wellesley at 10AM. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Visiting hours on Monday from 3-8PM. Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellesley.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Joe’s memory to the Joe Perdoni Family Trust for the benefit of his children, Joseph and Reece Perdoni, c/o Joseph Perdoni Sr. 6 Francis St. Wellesley, MA 02482.
I’ve known Joe since his days at WHS. A big man with an even bigger personality and heart. I saw Joe in his shop a while back for the first time after many, many years and he greeted me with a big hug. We laughed a lot while talking about the old days. My sincere condolences to Sarah and the family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Joe was a genuine and kind person. Although we just met a couple years ago I felt as if he was an old friend. We talked about hanging out and going fishing. So sorry we never got the chance. He will be missed by me and many of my colleagues at WCVB Channel 5. We often drove past many other potential lunch spots just to go see Joe and have some of the great food at Old School. Rest in Peace big fella…..
I usually have a lot to say but I am without words. Joe was a wonderful person. He loved his family so much. He would come over and talk to the customers and make everyone feel like he was their friend. This is beyond sad, I am glad that I got to know Joel I am a better person,
So sad. What a wonderful, kind, faith-filled, friendly, sweet man!
I don’t know Joe myself, but he will always have a special place in the hearts of my family. Joe was a member of a youth group in Framingham of which my brother Roger was youth pastor. Joe was instrumental in saving my brother from drowning when the canoe they were in, capsized. We owe a debt of gratitude to this man who was only 19 at the time. Our deepest prayers and condolences for his entire family as they grieve this terrible loss.
Our prayers for the family and all of those who are suffering the loss of this wonder person. Joey loved people and he will be missed and loved by all. Jesus said, “blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4
There are no words to explain how sad I am to lose a friend. Joey became my friend when he was working on starting the business. He was always caring, compassionate. A kind soul, a warm heart and a smiling face. My sincere sympathies and my prayers go out to Joey’s family and friends
This is so sad – he was such a warm, friendly guy – my preschoolers loved going in there as a special treat for French Fries, they loved the decor and he treated everyone who walked in like a family friend…. always a smile and a warm welcome. Our condolences to his family, who have lost so much more than a friendly face.
Very sorry to read this…the Perdoni’s are a great family and this is such a sad loss…
As former WHS classmates we are saddened to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joe’s family during this difficult time. With Love and Sympathy, Michelle and Scott Robertson
Does anyone know if a fund has been set up for the family?
Very sad. Joe was among the nicest, warmest, and most genuine people I’ve ever met. Wellesley has lost one of its best; a true gentleman and mensch. My heart goes out to his family and hope they get some comfort from their memories of having had this angel in their lives.
It is so tragic. Joe was a sweet guy with a heart of gold. He will be missed.
Heartbroken that teammate, friend and brother has left us. I am working to draw strength from the fact that he has gone on to a better place. I will also hold close the memories and good times to get through this loss. My prayers go out to his family and all of our other teammates.
dear perdoni famlily. I am heartbroken. joe was not only a friend but a very nice man. many times he would converse with me old school and make me l a friend in need. he was always there to help. I can remember when my power wheel chair overturned. who helped me out, but joe. I will always remember,