After recently celebrating his 100th birthday, Romeo L. Annese of Marlborough, MA 

died peacefully  on March 12th at  the Knollwood Nursing Center, Worcester, MA after a brief illness.

 

His life began on Hawthorn St., in Nonantum “The Lake” section of Newton.  

Born to Josephine (Figliolini) and Antonio Annese as the youngest of 17 children, he was the last remaining sibling. 

 

A proud  WWII Veteran, he joined the ranks of the U.S. Merchant Marines at the age of 17 and served on ammunition ships providing vital supplies to the Allied forces across the Atlantic and various ports in Europe.  

 

Achieving a career of over 40 years, he retired from Raytheon and was a member of Teamsters Union Local 25.

 

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, Catherine, his daughters Annmarie Gagnon and infant Diane and is survived by his devoted children, Rosemarie;  Ralph;  Anthony;  his wife Tammy; and Elizabeth.  He was Papa to 5 grandchildren and 6 great  grandchildren.

 

Known affectionately as Uncle Ro to many nieces and nephews, stories of his 

physical strength and magical ability for bending dimes remain legendary.  

 

Among his many talents was a knack for finding unending uses for duct tape, his meatballs which rivaled Grandma’s and his gift for numerology.

 

He will be lovingly remembered by family and friends for his quick wit and sharp mental acuity until his final days.

 

At his request, his services are private. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Knollwood Nursing Center for the exceptional end of life care given to him. 

 

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Knollwood Nursing Center: Donating to Knollwood Nursing Center or charity of your choice.