Pat D. Purcaro Jr., also known as Patsy D. Purcaro Jr., 79, of Waterbury, Conn., and Port Charlotte, Fla., passed away peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by his family, Friday, Nov. 2, 2012, at the VITAS Hospice Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital.

He was born Jan. 2, 1933, in Waterbury, the son of Patsy D. and Rose (nee Melillo) Purcaro.

Pat was the loving husband of Roma J. (nee Boyle) Purcaro. Educated in Waterbury, he was a graduate of Wilby High School, Class of 1952. Pat had a dry-cleaning career of 45 years, where he first operated Pur-fect Cleaners in 1962. He later owned Kievman’s Cleaners in Naugatuck, Conn., and Par Cleaners in Waterbury, before joining ADCO Inc. of Sedalia, Mo., and H. Krevit Inc. of New Haven, Conn., suppliers of dry-cleaning supplies, as a salesman. Upon retirement, he and Roma became snowbirds in Port Charlotte. Pat was a member of the Deep Creek Elks 2763, and enjoyed working for the Boston Red Sox during their spring training in Fort Myers, Fla. Rhode Island beaches were his favorite part of his summer.

Pat is survived by his wife of 55 years, Roma; sons, Scott L. (Linda) Purcaro Sr. of Prospect, Conn., Richard A. (Kathleen) Purcaro of Naugatuck, and Todd M. Purcaro of Wethersfield, Conn.; grandchildren, Scott L. Jr., Joseph A., Megan M. and Gina Purcaro; sister, Julia Bergantino of Litchfield, Conn.; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Anthony L., Michael and Andrew Purcaro; two sisters, Philomina “Fanny” DiStasio and Eleanor Aliciene; and his parents.

According to Pat’s wishes, all services are private and burial will be at the convenience of the family. For more information and online condolences, visit www.maioranofuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are by Maiorano Funeral Home, Waterbury.