Anthony J. Massarelli was a kindly social worker who helped ease the Allegheny County public welfare office through the massive federally mandated reform in the mid-1990s and was known for his generosity and respect for the needy.

The changes were complicated, but Mr. Massarelli is remembered for ushering them through by keeping the focus on treating clients with dignity.

Mr. Massarelli, 67, of Murrysville, died at his home Thursday of complications from emphysema.

After a nearly 30-year career as a social worker, Mr. Massarelli was named executive director of the Allegheny County Public Assistance Office around 1990. He served as director for five years before he retired.

As the county's welfare chief, he administered programs that fed the hungry, clothed the impoverished and found jobs for the homeless. His office door, say friends, was always open, as was his heart.

Jim McCormick was director of personnel in the State Office Building and became good friends with Mr. Massarelli about 20 years ago.

"He had time for everybody: clients, employees, welfare advocates. When he met clients on the streets and they needed help, he gave them the money out of his pockets," said Mr. McCormick.

Mr. Massarelli began his social work career in Mc-Keesport. After retirement, he served on the county's welfare board of hearings and appeals, helping to ease the workload.

Mr. Massarelli was the youngest of three children. He was raised in Garfield and graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1956. He earned his bachelor's degree in social work from Duquesne University in 1960 and a master's in social work from the University of Pittsburgh in 1970.

An avid golfer, every Father's Day, he'd go to the course with his three sons.

He is survived by his wife Lucille Lipinski Massarelli; his children, Lisa Marie Pierce of Plum, Diane Sterling of Greensburg, Anthony of Plum, Matthew J. of Murrysville, Gina Marie DiDiano of Trafford and James G. of Murrysville; and nine grandchildren.

Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. today in the Mother of Sorrows Church, 4200 Old William Penn Highway, Murrysville.