James “Buster” Pellegrino Sr., 83, of North Haven passed away peacefully on Monday, March 10, 2014, at Masonicare Health Center with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of 51 years to Marilyn Sosnowski Pellegrino. Jim was born in New Haven on September 2, 1930; son of the late Emanuel and Rose Pellegrino. After serving his country in the US Army during the Korean war, he had a long distinguished career with the US Postal Service. He also co-owned Pellegrino Builders, with his late brother Anthony (“Red”) Pellegrino. He is survived by his three sons: James Pellegrino Jr. (Laura) of Hamden, Michael (Megan) Pellegrino of Mattapoisett, MA, and Christopher (the late Tanya) Pellegrino of Clinton. He was so incredibly proud of all his grandchildren: Jessica Stevens, Madelyn Pellegrino, Heather Stevens, Michael J. Pellegrino, Paige Pellegrino, Olivia Pellegrino, and Elyse Pellegrino. He leaves behind two of his sisters: Dorothy (the late James) Esposito of North Haven, and Marie (Anthony) Esposito of Northford. Brother-in-law of Joseph and Dorothy Sosnowski Lockwood. He was predeceased by a sister Bridget (Ralph) Castellon of Branford, as well as his aforementioned brother Anthony (“Red”) Pellegrino and sister-in-law Louise (“Dolly”) Pellegrino. Jim’s many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends were also so very important to him, and gave him the most joy. His two beagles, Buddy and Dip, already miss him very much. The Pellegrino family would also like to acknowledge the extraordinary Masonicare Health Center in Wallingford, whose staff and volunteers cared for Jim with incredible excellence, grace, and compassion. The staff and residents of Masonicare have all become extended family and have the Pellegrino’s unending thanks.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life mass at St. Therese Church in North Haven on Saturday, March 15th at 11 am, interment with full military honors will follow in All Saints Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to Masonicare of Wallingford, 22 Masonic Ave, Wallingford, CT 06492 or the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook Street, I-91 Tech CTR. #3, Rocky Hill, CT 06067. The North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, has been entrusted with the arrangements.