October 22, 2014

In Memoriam: Robert J. Perugini ’56; longtime regional alumni leader

Robert J. Perugini ’56 of Prospect, Conn., a career educator who was active in alumni and fundraising activities for Providence College, died on July 5. He was the husband of Joan (DiStasio) Perugini. They were married 52 years.

Mr. Perugini was born in Waterbury, a son of the late Pasquale and Rose (DelGobbo) Perugini. He was a graduate of Crosby High School and Cheshire Academy, and served in the U.S. Army. He received a master’s degree from Central Connecticut State University.

Mr. Perugini taught in Waterbury for his entire career, first at Sprague School and then at Wilby High School, retiring in 1994.

He rarely missed a PC alumni event, helped the College with fundraising as a regional chair and phone-athon volunteer, and was a fan of Friars basketball. He also followed the New York Yankees and New York Giants. He was a member of the Waterbury Elks Club and the Knights of Columbus.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Maria Perugini Baechli ’90, Gioia C. Perugini ’93, and Andrea Drewry; seven grandchildren; and a sister, Carol Mastrantonio.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated in St. Anthony’s Church, Prospect. Donations in his memory may be made to the PC Angel Fund in care of Providence College, Office of Institutional Advancement, 1 Cunningham Square, Harkins Hall 412, Providence, RI 02918-0001.