Joseph D. Bosia, affectionately known as "Papa”, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025 at the age of 91. Born in East Boston, MA on June 11, 1933 to the late Joseph and Anita (Maggioli) Bosia, he was raised in Somerville and graduated from Somerville High School.
A proud veteran, Joe served in the United States Air Force before pursuing his education at Lowell Technological Institute (now UMASS Lowell), where he earned a degree in Engineering. He went on to enjoy a long and successful career as a computer engineer at The MITRE Corporation, retiring after 35 years of dedicated service.
Joe was the beloved husband of the late Marilyn R. (Tucker) Bosia. They made their home in Tewksbury and were married for 38 years before Marilyn passed away in 2000. Joe continued living in Tewksbury for the remainder of his life.
Joe lived a full and active life. He was a Gold Member of the Tewksbury-Wilmington B.P.O. Elks and an active member of the Tewksbury Senior Center. He enjoyed ballroom and line dancing and could be found at many dance events throughout the Merrimack Valley. In his early years he was an avid runner and bowler, and was also very active in Tewksbury youth sports, coaching both baseball and basketball teams. His hobbies included whittling and guitar playing, but his greatest joy was gardening, which he continued enjoying into his 90’s. A true sports enthusiast, he loved watching the Boston Red Sox and college basketball games.
Joe is survived by his three children: Laura A. Roche and her husband Robert of Haverhill, MA; Joseph W. Bosia and his wife Debora Quinn of Westford, MA; and Michael E. Bosia and his wife Cheryl of Dracut, MA. He leaves behind eight beloved grandchildren: Amanda, Shannon and her wife Nicole, Bobby and his fiance Hayley, Evan and his wife Danielle, Joelle, Hallie, Brian, Sean, and step grandchildren Jake and Ryan. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Lily, who lovingly called him "Papa B". He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, other family members, and his long time friend and companion Marjorie Kelley.
Joe was also predeceased by his siblings: Irene Paicopolos, Claire Barkosky, Edmund Bosia, Robert Bosia, Ernest Bosia, who was killed in action during World War II, and Joseph Bosia Jr., who passed away as an infant.
Joe will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and the unwavering love he had for his family.
The Bosia family would like to thank the dedicated staff of Bayberry Assisted Living, Blaire House Skilled Nursing Facility, and New England Hospice. All provided exceptional and loving care.
The family kindly requests that any memorial contributions be made in Joseph’s name to: New England Hospice, 190 Old Derby St # 304, Hingham, MA 02043.
You are invited to his calling hours on Friday, May 9, 2025 from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at Tewksbury Funeral Home, 1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury, MA. His funeral mass will be offered at 11:30 a.m. at St. Williams Church in Tewksbury; followed by burial at Tewksbury Cemetery.