Athol, MA – It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne A. Tatro, 83, of Athol, MA, who passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026, following a courageous, long battle with cancer. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Wayne was born on September 7, 1942, to the late Arthur and Marion (Nelson) Tatro. A proud graduate of Athol-Royalston High School, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University. Wayne dedicated his entire professional career to Starrett Tool in Athol, where he passionately designed the machinery used to build precision tools until his retirement at age 75.
Outside of work, Wayne’s greatest joy was his family and his community. When his son John was born, Wayne was thrilled to share his love for the outdoors through the Boy Scouts. He became a devoted leader of Troop 72, staying heavily involved long after John achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and spent years inspiring generations of young boys in Athol. An avid outdoorsman, Wayne loved fishing, hiking, and camping.
He was predeceased by his wife, Rosemary (Nicoliello) Tatro; his brother, Michael Tatro; and his daughter, Anne-Marie Tatro.
Wayne’s legacy lives on through his longtime companion, Jackie Paluilis; his daughter, Paulette M. (Tatro) Nicoliello and her husband Robert Buckley of Phillipston, MA; his son, John James (JJ) Tatro of NC; as well as Lisa Paluilis Parker and her husband Scott, Paul Paluilis, and Danny Paluilis. He was the cherished “Papa T” or “Papa the Great” to his grandchildren, Nicole Buckley, James Tatro, Alexandra Tatro, Allison Parker, and Delanie Parker; and his great-grandchildren, Anthony, Aubrianna, and Alijah Buckley.
Arrangements for a Celebration of Life, including the scattering of Wayne’s ashes at his favorite fishing spot, Tully Dam, are currently being made. Details will be shared once they are finalized.
Click here to sign the guest book or honor their memory with flowers, donations, or other heartfelt tributes