Published August 23, 2019

MELROSE — John C. Rossi, 80, of Melrose, died peacefully on July 20, 2019.

John was born in Boston on January 7, 1939 to John and Anna (Nazzaro) Rossi. He was raised in Boston and attended Boston Public Schools before moving on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Bentley College.

John also served his country honorably during the Vietnam War.

He worked at Polaroid for many years and was a member of the Melrose VFW and volunteered as a coach for the Melrose Little League for 30 years.

John was the husband of 57 years to the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty’ Rossi. Father of Jack Rossi of Melrose, and Jennifer Rossi DeFeo of Wilmington. Beloved Grampy of Derek Rossi of Melrose, and Joslyn DeFeo, Jaelyn DeFeo, James Rene DeFeo, and Jonathan DeFeo, all of Wilmington. Brother-in-law of Joyce Rossi, Dwight Sackett & his wife Janice, and Robert Sackett & his wife Lisa. Brother of the late George Rossi, the late Delores Lowery, and the late Edward Rossi. Also survived by his lifelong friend Lyle Eori, and many nieces & nephews.

Funeral services will be private. Arrangements by Gately Funeral Home Melrose. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com