Lawrence "Larry" Zarrella

Lawrence “Larry” Zarrella passed away peacefully at home on August 13, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished. A lifelong resident of Fitchburg, he lived with quiet strength, boundless generosity, and deep devotion. He was a wonderful family man, a gifted engineer, and a remarkable human being whose warmth touched everyone who knew him.

Born to John and Angelina (Cefalo) Zarrella, Larry graduated from St. Bernard’s High School, Class of 1956, serving as class treasurer and developing a lifelong love of football. He continued his education at Wentworth Institute and Fitchburg State College.

For 36 years, Larry worked at GTE International, designing antennas and communication systems that reached across the globe. His work took him far beyond home, and wherever he traveled, he earned lasting friendships. As an engineering manager, he mentored young engineers from Northeastern University with patience, encouragement, and care.

Larry and his beloved wife, Bruna, enjoyed traveling across Europe and North America, but his happiest place was the family’s beach house in Moody Beach, Wells, Maine. There, with the sound of the ocean and the people he loved, he found true contentment. Home, especially with family, was always where his heart belonged.

Above every achievement, Larry’s greatest role was as a devoted husband, father, Nonno, and Bis-Nonno. For 66 years, he shared a deeply devoted marriage with Virginia “Bruna” (Baldarelli). Through the way he lived each day, he taught the importance of family with patience, generosity, and unwavering support. In retirement, he became a steady presence at every practice, game, and competition, cheering on his grandchildren with genuine joy. His encouragement and time were freely given. He will be deeply and forever missed.

He is survived by his wife, Bruna; daughters Laura Dion (Jim) of Lunenburg and Paula MacDonald (Jeff) of Sanibel, Florida; son Peter Zarrella (Deanna) of Portsmouth, New Hampshire; grandchildren Jason Keating, Nicole Rivard (Nathan), Michelle Dion (Eric Ruggiero), Giuliana Zarrella, Michael Dion, and Gabrielle Zarrella; great-granddaughters Kaia Keating, Amelia Rivard, and Sophia Rivard; sister Gloria Hand of Worcester; sister-in-law Norma Brasili of Fitchburg; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; sisters Maryann Zarrella and Lena Gallant; and brothers Pasquale, William, Mario, and Alfred.

Calling hours are Thursday, August 20, from 5–7 p.m. at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony di Padua Church on Friday, August 21, at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at St. Bernard’s Cemetery.