Calogero “Charlie” Messina, age 78 of Somerville, passed away Tuesday, March 20, at home surrounded by his family after a 10 month battle with cancer.
Born the eighth of nine children, Charlie was raised in Boston´s North End.
His passion was his family, especially his grandchildren, with whom he tirelessly spent countless hours.
Until his diagnosis, he led a healthy, active lifestyle. Charlie was an avid bowler for over 30 years belonging to as many as 4 leagues in a season and also enjoyed long walks with his wife of 53 years, Rose (LaSala), formerly of East Boston.
In addition to his wife Rose, Charlie is survived by his loving children, Richard Messina and his wife JoAnne of Tewksbury, and Kenneth Messina of Boxborough. Loving grandfather to Christina, Steven, Jenna and Jessica. Brother of Diega Maniglia of Winthrop, Rosalia Raccioppi of Somerville, Elena Rich of Winchester, Giovanina Jamgochian of Woburn and the late Mary Baiungo, Alfonso, Diego and Angelo Messina. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and friends.
Funeral from the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD, Tuesday, March 27, at 8 AM. Followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Ann Church, 399 Medford St., Somerville at 9 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Monday 4 thru 8. Services will conclude with burial at St. Michael Cemetery, Boston.
It has been requested that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made in Charlie´s name to Hallmark Health Hospice, 100 Hospital Rd., Malden, MA 02148.