Arif Tartar Halilaj

WORCESTER-Arif Tartar Halilaj, 91, died on November 12, 2021 in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Arif was born in Vlora, Albania, son of the late Tartar and Bejko (Bocaj) Halilaj. He was a World War II veteran and served his entire career in the Albanian Army, earning the highest rank.

Arif is survived by his beloved wife, Fatime (Kapaj) Halilaj, his son, Sofokli Halilaj and his wife Roza of Worcester, his daughter Pavlina Tollkuci and her husband Llazaraq of Worcester, and six beautiful grandchildren, Eni and her partner Isin, Sibora, Aulona and her partner Rudy, Marco, Egin and his wife Elizabeth, and Anja. Arif's unending love and warmth was one of their precious gifts in life. He also leaves brothers and sisters in Albania.

Arif was an outdoorsman who loved nature. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and hunting in Albania and had a deep love for the "old country." He was loyal, gregarious, and treasured family and friends, entertaining them until his last days. He loved life.

Visiting Hours will be held Tuesday, November 16th from 5:00 until 7:00pm at Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home, 61 Myrtle St. The burial in Hope Cemetery will be held on Wednesday, November 17th. All are invited to gather at the funeral home on Wednesday, November 17th at 11am to drive in procession to Hope Cemetery for the burial at Noon.