Vito DiPaola, 89, passed peacefully with his family at his side in Westerly, Rhode Island on Tuesday, September 26, 2017. He is survived by his children, Thomas DiPaola (Nadine), Sandra Manfred (Leo), Vito DiPaola, Theresa DiPaola, Michael DiPaola, and Mary DiPaola. He leaves a sister, Nora Luther of Summer St, Westerly. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Vito was born in Westerly, Rhode Island, one of nine children of Theresa and Thomas DiPaola. He was raised in a large close-knit family on Pearl Street. He is predeceased by seven brothers and sisters, Sally (Devine), Lenora (Serra), Betty (Serra), Antoinette (Valliere) Michael, Larry, and Joseph. Vito “The Don” was a veteran of the military and had several careers, including 30 years with the Westerly Telephone Company. Following retirement, he worked for Harris Corporation, operated a flower-and-garden center, and volunteered with the Olean Center. As a young man he also served as a lifeguard at Misquamicut Beaches. Although Vito was well-known throughout the community, he became even more so during the time he worked as an on-air personality as host of the morning show on WBLQ 1230 AM with his grandson Chris DiPaola. With assistance from his family and friends he built his home, where he maintained residence until his recent hospitalization. Vito was a man of very strong opinions and was not hesitant to offer them to many different audiences. He was a voracious reader of newspapers – local, national and international. He had a quick wit and was virtually never at a loss for words. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Football Giants. He was, as Gore Vidal might have described, not fully happy if the Yankees won – the Red Sox had to lose on the same day for him to be completely pleased! He enjoyed being surrounded by his family – and of course hosting meals – many of which he prepared himself. It was nearly impossible to visit without having something to eat. Vito’s family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to his many medical caregivers: Dr. Knisley, Dr. Legare, and of course Dr. Vanasse – and especially everyone who worked in their office, Angela, Dawn, Debbie, Bonnie and Pam Peluso. Also thanks to Drs. George Bourgonos and John Beauchamp with whom he had special relationships. Among the many wonderful people in the IV therapy department at the Westerly Hospital, we thank Erin, Sherry, Stacey, Barbara, Mary Jo, Diana, Sonia Jane, Jackie, Bob and Jim and most recently Martha. We also thank the “three Kims” and the rest of the terrific people in the registration department who assisted him in his visits to the hospital. At the family's request, there will be no visiting hours. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 Noon on Saturday, September 30, 2017 at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 7 Church Street, Bradford, RI. Burial will follow at St. Sebastian Cemetery, Westerly. A Celebration of Vito’s Life will be held immediately following the committal service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Vito's memory to a charity of one’s choice. Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly, is in charge of the arrangements. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com