Vincent “Andy” Anastas

Vincent “Andy” Anastas, of Brooksby Village in Peabody and formerly longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at the Kaplan Family Hospice House on Monday, May 16, 2022, at age 85.

Andy was born on April 11, 1937, one of four children of the late George and Helen (Frank) Anastas. He was raised in Melrose and South Boston and graduated from Commerce High School, Class of 1955. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served 4 years as an Airman, 1 ^st Class. Following his honorable discharge, Andy was married to his best friend and beloved wife, Shirley Holmes. They settled in Melrose to raise a family of four children. With a strong work ethic, Andy became the owner of Boston based commercial cleaning company, W.C. Holmes Cleaning.

A humble, hard working man, Andy was a great role model for his family. Throughout his life, he always saw the good in others, and treated everyone he met with fairness and without judgement. With his selfless nature, he instilled strong family values in his children, and remained a loyal, dedicated husband to Shirley.

In his free time, Andy loved a competitive game of cribbage with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed playing a round of golf, playing cards with his buddies at the Lt. Norman Prince VFW Post, or visiting the cottage on Sebago Lake in Maine. An avid reader, he also enjoyed reading historical books.

With his uplifting and supportive way, Andy was reliable, consistent, and down to earth. He loved unconditionally, never judged, and was always true to himself. With a smile and laugh, Andy was always up for anything, especially if his grandchildren (and ice cream) were involved.

Andy was an admirable, honest, and good hearted man. With a laugh and a smile, he endeared himself to everyone he met, and served as a source of great love, and strength for his family. He will be deeply missed, but his selfless nature (and classic Dad lines) will carry on through the lives of his family.

Andy was the beloved husband of the late Shirley A. (Holmes) Anastas with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. Devoted father of Susan R. Lamparelli and her husband Michael of Stoughton, Jeffrey V. Anastas and his wife Valerie of Kennebunk, ME, Pamela H. Anastas and her partner Betsi Bell of Saugus, and Laura J. Casey and her husband Mark of Andover. Dear brother of Jacqueline Downie and her husband Doug, George Anastas, and John Anastas and his wife Jean, all of Arlington. Cherished grandfather of Derek & Chiara Lamparelli, Rachel & Steven Anastas, and Alyssa & Christopher Casey.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather in honor of Andy’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Sunday, May 22 from 2-6pm, and again on Monday at 9am before leaving in procession to the St. Mary’s Church, Herbert St., Melrose for his Funeral Mass celebrated at 10am. Interment with military honors by the US Air Force at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. Gifts in Andy’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd., Waltham MA 02452.