Camillo DeLellis passes away at age 95
Camillo Anthony “Blackie” DeLellis (A-346), age 95, of Oakmont, PA, formerly of Verona, went to be with his heavenly Father on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. Blackie was born in Webster PA., on May 5, 1924 to the late Rocco (from Abruzzi, Italy) and Carmella DeLellis. Beloved husband of his first wife, the late Carolyn A. (Martino) DeLellis, who passed away on August 17, 1984, and his second wife of 35 years, the late Eleanor “Dolly” (Scampone) DeLellis, who passed away on March 6, 2020. Also preceded in death by his sons Daniel DeLellis, Louis Scampone, and Jeff Scampone; stepfather Vincenzo Esposito; sister Mary Marsh; and son-in-law Roy Chilton. Blackie is survived by his children James (Rita) DeLellis, Maryann Chilton, Paul (Tina) DeLellis, Greg (Ronna) Scampone, and Cheryl Scampone; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren to which he was a proud grandfather; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Blackie was a WWII Veteran, having served in company A 346th 87th division of the U.S. Army and earned Bronze Stars for good conduct and a Victory Medal. He also served in the U.S. Airforce Reserve Unit. In 1955, Blackie became a police officer in the town of Verona, where he then resided, and served as Police Chief from 1964 to 1979. He was a member of the PA Police Chiefs Association for 25 years, and became director of the Pittsburgh Housing Authority Police Dept. until his retirement in 1992. Blackie devoted over 25 years as a firefighter and member of the Scuba Rescue of Verona Borough. He was the oldest member of the Verona Fraternal Order of Eagles, having joined in 1942, VFW Post 441 since 1947, and the FOP since 1963.
Blackie was also a lifelong member of St. Joseph Parish and was a devout Catholic. He held FAITH, FAMILY, and FRIENDS dear to his heart. He was passionate about his Italian heritage and loved to share stories of history, food, travel, and winemaking. Many thanks to the numerous family members and neighbors that always checked in on and helped Blackie and Dolly over the years. Blackie will be missed and loved by all. Unfortunately, due to the current pandemic, a private burial will take place.
Our apologies to the family for sharing this news with the 87th ID family so long after his passing.