Roger P. Pompei

It is with deep sadness we announce the departure of a beloved husband, father, brother, papa and coach, Roger P. Pompei. 

Roger spent his final moments surrounded by his loving family and passed away peacefully listening to the Beatles and the Beach Boys. His journey was softened by the affectionate care he received from his nurse Sarah and all the nurses at Dana-Farber. 

Born on May 31, 1950, in Leominster, MA, Roger grew up playing Pop Warner football before becoming the record-breaking kicker (the toe) for Leominster High School. He graduated from Leominster High in 1968 where his cleat is immortalized in bronze. He proudly served in the National Guard from 1970-1976. Roger, affectionately known as Coach Pompei, spent his life in service to his loved ones and the community. His life was a living testament to his dedication, loyalty, and generosity. He was a beacon of light for all who knew him, guiding them with his words of wisdom, encouragement, and enthusiasm. We bid farewell to Coach Pompei as he departed this world on May 13, 2024.

 

Roger was a dedicated mold designer and estimator, retiring from ITW in Westminster, MA in 2017. His loyal work ethic was admired by his colleagues. He was not just a co-worker but a generous friend, always willing to lend a hand. In his retirement, he enjoyed traveling cross country and abroad with his wife. One of his favorite sites that they visited was the Hoover Dam.

He was a much-loved figure in the local community affectionately known as "Coach Pompei" for many years: developing, inspiring, and shaping the youth in his community. He dedicated more than 30 years of his life to coaching, a testament to his unfailing generosity and dedication, and set the bar for all those to follow. As Vince Lombardi once said, “The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” Roger embodied this philosophy in every aspect of his life.

 

His role shifted from coach to “Papa,” as he became his grandkids’ number one fan, rarely missing a game. Being the best Papa was his passion as he enjoyed, encouraged, laughed, and played with his grandkids.

 

Roger leaves behind his best friend and loving wife of 50 years Karen Pompei, his daughter Christina Pompei of Leominster and her significant other Zach Dion, his daughter Amy Pompei of Ashburnham and son-in-law Steve Correa, his son Nicholas Pompei of Westminster and his wife Jodi Pompei, his grandchildren; Bryanna Giannoni, Mackenzie Correa, Liliana Giannoni, Cameron Giannoni, Jackson Pompei, Matthew Correa, Cody Giannoni, Cassidy Correa, Gianna Pompei, and Lyla Robar, his sister Maryann McGee of Gardner and her husband Robert McGee, his brother John Pompei of Leominster, his sister Shirley Brideau of Fitchburg and her husband Patrick Brideau, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alphonse and Pierina Pompei (Tocci). Roger's love for his family was evident in every part of his life. Their shared memories, laughter, and love will continue to live on. 

Flowers can be sent to Brandon Funeral Home or donations can be sent in Roger’s name to Friends of Dana-Farber, 450 Brookline Ave., SW120, Boston, MA 02215.

We invite those who knew Roger to share their memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page at www.brandonfuneral.com. In doing so, we can keep his generous spirit and enduring love for his family and sports alive for future generations to appreciate. His life was a testament to the power of dedication, love, and generosity, and his memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. 😎

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.