1934 - 2026
Born in Campodi Giove, Italy, Vittorio was the son of the late Roberto and Angela (Pensa) Palumbo. He immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island on May 5, 1955, eventually settling in Milford.
Vittorio’s early life was marked by extraordinary hardship and resilience. In 1939, his family relocated to Libya in search of better opportunities, answering a call from Italy’s fascist leadership to colonize North Africa. Shortly thereafter, at just six years old, Vittorio was taken back to Italy and forced into Mussolini’s military boarding schools. Separated from his family for eight years, he endured the harsh realities of war, including time spent living in the wilderness to evade German occupation and surviving in a refugee camp.
When he was finally reunited with his parents in Libya, the years apart had changed them all. Eventually, Vittorio made his way to America, where he was able to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a tailor.
He went on to become a master tailor at the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center, where his skill and craftsmanship contributed to the design of the modern utility uniform for the United States Marine Corps. Vittorio remained dedicated to his work and continued his career until retiring from Natick Labs in 2018.
In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his son, Steven Palumbo of Honolulu, Hawaii; his sister, Ada DelSignore of Milan, Italy; and his two granddaughters, Olivia Hurley and Caroline Hurley. He was predeceased by his daughter, Cristina Hurley; his three brothers, Genaro, Giovanni, and Guerrino Palumbo; and his sister, Giovanna Delmastro.
The funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 9:00 AM from the Consigli-Ruggerio Funeral Home, 46 Water Street, Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 5 East Main Street, Milford. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery.
Calling hours will be held on Monday from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.
