Published in the December 15, 2017 edition
MELROSE — Anthony C. Polcari, 90, of Melrose, died peacefully surrounded by family on December 8, 2017. Anthony was born in Somerville on July 19, 1927 to the late Raphael and Rosalie (D’Antonio) Polcari. He was raised in Medford and graduated from Medford High School in 1945.
Anthony Polcari was a World War II veteran. He served in Anchorage, Alaska as a communications expert and was awarded the Victory Medal in honor of his service. Returning home after the war, Anthony attended Tufts University, where he played varsity soccer. He remained a sports enthusiast throughout his life. He graduated from Tufts in 1952 with a bachelors degree in Economics.
Anthony married Claire Marie McCarthy on November 13, 1954 in Lynn. Anthony and Claire soon settled in Melrose to raise their five children. The Polcari’s were lifelong parishioners at Incarnation Catholic church where Anthony served in the Holy Name Society. Anthony believed fervently in community service and devoted himself to his church and his town, serving for years as a volunteer member of the Melrose Redevelopment Authority. Anthony began his professional career as a loan officer for Shawmut Bank, and rose to the level of Vice President. Following retirement, he continued to work part time for his lifelong friend, Joe Pace, well into his 80s.
Anthony was the beloved husband of the late Claire M. (McCarthy) Polcari. Loving father of Linda M. Biles of Andover, Donna M. Polcari of North Andover, Carol A. Dickerson and her husband James of Windham, N.H., the late James A. Polcari, and John A. Polcari of Bradford. Father-in-law of Mealea Chan-Polcari, Judie Polcari, and Daniel T. Biles. Cherished grandfather of Julianne, Matthew, Kaleigh, Erin, Jennifer, Caroline, Jaclyn, Olivia, Anthony, Joseph, Ethan, and Connie. Brother of Nancee Greeley and her husband Donald of Hingham, the late Dante Polcari, and twin brother of the late John Polcari. Brother-in-law of Anne Polcari of Coppell, TX. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be held at the Church of the Incarnation, 425 Upham St., Melrose on Saturday, December 16, from 9 – 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Salem. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Friends of Jim Polcari’s Educational Trust at your local Bank of America. To leave an online message of condolence please visit gatelyfh.com.
