Chris J. Delicata, writes:

The news of Wilfred Vassallo's death last week brought back memories of the wonderful days spent at St Patrick's church in Sliema in the 1980s and 1990s. His name was synonymous with St Patrick's and the Salesians.

Wilfred was very active in the religious community - he served as sacristan, master of ceremonies and lector at several ceremonies at St Patrick's and the Salesian Oratory. He was also a minister of the Eucharist and for decades assisted the elderly and sick in the vicinities of St Gregory's parish besides providing valuable assistance to the parish. Recently, he also assisted and participated actively at the ceremonies held at the Ursuline Sisters in Sliema. In recent years, even though he looked frail at times, he still persisted to fulfil what he always believed in: to be of service to others.

I recall the joy he endured in preparing for the annual procession in honour of Mary Help of Christians - he was a great devotee of our Lady. He was a perfectionist who always strived for detail to ensure that all went well.

He was always proud of his origins and always spoke highly of his school days at St Edwards' College and his long-standing career with Allied Newspapers.

Society has indeed lost a true and exemplary gentleman.

To his dear wife and his children, my sincere condolences.