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.