Richard “Dickie” Rossi a lifelong Needham resident died on Friday, December 26, 2008 at Kindred Waltham Hospital. He was 84 years old. Born in Newton, Dickie was raised and educated in Needham. He was a graduate of Needham High School Class of 1942. Dickie served in the US Army Air Corp during World War II. He was discharged from the service as a 2nd Lieutenant. After the war, Dickie embarked on a career as a heavy equipment operator. He first worked for H. Rossi and Sons and then many other excavation contractors in the Greater Boston area. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 4. He was a member of the Lt. Manson H. Carter VFW Post 2498 as well as the Needham Village Club. The beloved husband for 50 years of Jean M. (Doshin) Rossi, he was the loving father of Pamela J. Chrzanowski and her husband Dan of Williamsville NY and Richard P. Rossi of Needham and his companion Susan Bowler. Brother of Grace Giumetti of Needham, Alba Filipetti of Wareham and the late Florence, Hugo, Robert, Edgar, Elsa and Clara. Loving Papa of Matthew and Jack. “Uncle Dickie” is survived by many wonderful nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave on Tuesday,December 30 at 10 AM followed by a Service of Remembrance with Military Honors at the Newton Cemetery Chapel, 791 Walnut St Newton at 11:00 AM. Following the service a reception in “Dickie’s” honor at the Needham VFW, 20 Junction St Needham. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home on Monday from 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers donations in “Dickie’s” name may be made to The New England Center for Homeless Veterans 17 Court St, Boston MA 02108.