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WWII Vet's 100 Years: Music and Memories Live On
15 Aug
Summary
- Gene Passarella, a WWII Bronze Star recipient, died at 100.
- He led the Gene Dempsey Orchestra for decades, performing recently.
- His life exemplified a transition from war's darkness to music's joy.
Gene 'Dempsey' Passarella, a distinguished World War II veteran and a celebrated regional musician, passed away recently at the age of 100. His life was marked by a profound dedication to both service and the arts, a duality noted by his grandson who highlighted the beauty of a man facing war's darkness who then devoted his life to creating joyful music.
Passarella, who served bravely in Normandy and Belgium, earning a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts, also had a lengthy career with the U.S. Postal Service. His passion for music led him to found the Gene Dempsey Orchestra, for which he arranged much of the music for decades. He continued to lead performances, including a recent appearance at the 2024 La Festa Italiana, solidifying his status as a true Scranton legend.
Married for nearly 74 years to his wife, Louise, Passarella's legacy extends beyond his music. A scholarship fund, the Gene Dempsey Passarella Music Scholarship, has been established in his honor. He was living at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center at the time of his passing.
