Robert Charles Avanzato, 68, of Pittsfield, MA passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at Berkshire Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born in Westfield, MA on November 3, 1949, the son of the late Vincenzo Avanzato and Jean Shay Edwards (Arthur Edwards, stepfather). He attended local schools in Westfield. He attended BCC and received his Culinary Certificate. He worked for Phillips Industrial Service for 10 years, Also worked at Big Y for 10 years as a Deli Clerk. His hobbies were camping, fishing, hunting and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Kathleen Avanzato, his 4 children; Tina Avanzato (Daniel Rosa), Melanie Crockwell (Jordan Wilson), Anthony Avanzato (Shylah) and Stephanie Avanzato (Kevin O'neill) and his 11 grandchildren; Cassandra, Haley, John, Giovanna, Vincenzo, Samuel, Jazmyn, Valenzia, Guiliana, Luiciano, and Jordan Jr., a brother, Richard Avanzato.

He is also survived by brothers and sisters-in-law; Christine and Rob Chadwick, Timothy and Cindy Shaw, Pete and Debbie Shaw, Giles and Bina Shaw, Carol Gunter and Christopher Shaw, along with many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brother James Avanzato, brothers-in-law, Howard Gunter and Patrick Shaw, and sister-in-law, Sharon Shaw.

In lieu of flowers, Donations may be made to St. Jude Hospital, in memory of Robert Avanzato.