Worcester – Yolanda “Nikki” (Ferro) Gangai, 86, of Worcester, formerly of Marlborough, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2015 at Saint Vincent’s Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Nikki is survived by her beloved children, Marlene M. Perno and her husband Stephen and Gene A. Gangai and his wife Michelle, all of Worcester; three grandchildren, Nicholas Perno and his wife Sofia of Worcester, Gianna Gangai of Grafton, and Michael Gangai of Worcester; and her nephew Michael Ferro and his wife Andrea of Marlborough. She was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Joseph A. Gangai, who passed away in October 2009. She was also predeceased by her sister, Gelsomena “Nina” Ferro, and her brother, Pasquale Ferro.
Nikki was born in Marlborough, daughter of the late Angelo and Antoinette (Cardellicchio) Ferro, and graduated from Marlborough High School. She also attended the Berkley School of Music where she became an accomplished singer.
She performed with the Ferro Trio all over New England and received numerous accolades and awards for her talent. She was a former member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.
She was passionate about many things, but her family was always her first priority. Nikki was a very giving and generous person. She loved helping others even in the smallest of ways. She was an exceptional cook, and also enjoyed playing Bingo.
The family will hold private services in celebration of Nikki’s life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Homestead Hall Activities Fund, 10 Homestead Ave., Worcester, MA 01610 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
To share your thoughts and memories of Nikki, visit her personal guestbook at www.mercadantefuneral.com.
