PORTLAND — Vincent “Vinny” A. DiFillipo Sr., 63, who retired from the Portland Fire Department with the rank of deputy fire chief, died Dec. 22, surrounded by his loving family at his residence
Affectionately known as “Vinny Jimmy” by many who knew him, DiFillipo was born in Portland, the son of Samuel and Carolyn Palermo DiFillipo. He attended Portland schools, graduating from Deering High School with the class of 1971. He later graduated from Southern Maine Technical College, now Southern Maine Community College, with a degree in fire science.
A devoted family man first, DiFillipo’s children were raised with kindness and guided by high moral principles. His beautiful granddaughters kept his heart light and were everything to him.
DiFillipo was a member for 30 years of the Portland Fire Department, where he was considered a beloved and respected leader. He was also known for being honest, supportive and trusting. DiFillipo retired in 2010. DiFillipo was both a high school and college football official. He received the 2015 football official’s award, which recognized 42 years of dedication and leadership to the sport he loved.
DiFillipo will be remembered for his caring manner, infectious smile and self-sacrificing ways.
He was predeceased by his father, Samuel DiFillipo Sr.
Besides his mother, he is survived by his wife of 43 years, Joyce (DiBiase) A. DiFillipo, a daughter, Danielle DiFillipo, a son, “Vinny” Jimmy DiFillipo Jr., all of Portland; his grandchildren, Isabella and Sicily DiFillipo, of Portland; a sister, Marta Voci, of Plymouth, Massachusetts; four brothers, Ralph Genovese, of Plymouth, Samuel DiFillipo Jr., of Gray, Michael DiFillipo, of Ohio and Aaron DiFillipo, of Cornish.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 29 at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Portland. Interment with firefighter’s honors followed at New Calvary Cemetery in South Portland.
The family wishes to extend their appreciation to the staff at VNA Home Health Care and Hospice and to Dr. Peter Emery and his staff.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in DiFillipo’s memory to Portland Firefighters, Children’s Burn Foundation, 380 Congress St., Portland, ME 04101.
DiFillipo
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