Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Rosario Golisano, fondly known as Roy to his family and friends, passed away peacefully at home on January 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 90 years old.
Roy was born on May 19, 1935, in Riesi, Sicily, Italy, and was the cherished son of the late Vincent and Palma (Speciale) Golisano. He spent his early years in Sicily before immigrating to the United States in 1951 at the age of 15, settling with his family in Corona, New York.
In September 1957, Roy proudly enlisted in the United States Army 123d Signal Battalion for the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Benning Ga. and West Germany in 1958. He was honorably discharged from active duty in September 1959 and continued his service with the U.S. Army Reserves until 1963.
On December 27, 1959, Roy married his sweetheart, Rose Marie Calascibetta. In August of 1969, they made their home in Wilmington, Massachusetts, where they raised their three beautiful children and built a life filled with love, hard work, and family traditions.
Roy took great pride in his home and yard. He was an avid gardener who grew an abundance of vegetables, cultivated grapes, and made homemade wine. An amazing cook, Roy loved to grill and entertain family and friends, especially during his memorable Fourth of July celebrations and cookouts. He was also an avid hunter, enjoyed fishing, and had a true appreciation for wild game.
A hardworking and dedicated provider, Roy spent many years as a shipper/receiver for Sweetheart Plastics Company in Wilmington before later transferring to their North Andover facility. He was known for his dependability, conscientious nature, and strong work ethic.
A true “jack of all trades,” Roy was a talented carpenter who generously shared his skills, always helping family and friends with projects.
Quiet and humble, Roy loved his family with all his heart and will be forever missed.
Roy was the beloved husband of Rose Marie Golisano; devoted father of Roy Golisano and his wife Lisa of Milford, NH, Joseph Golisano and his wife Anh of Tyngsboro, MA, and Maria Trudelle of Wilmington, MA; and loving “Grandpa” to Mark Golisano, Michael Golisano and his wife Caitlyn, Nathan Golisano, Jessica Howe, Krystle Powers, Gary Trudelle, and Jason Trudelle. He was the proud great-grandfather of Wyatt, Warren, Jayden, Josslyn, Jaxson, Jasper, and Jaycen. Roy is also survived by his dear brother, Armando Golisano and his wife Peggy of East Rindge, NH.
Family and friends are invited to gather for Visitation at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Saturday, January 17th, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a Funeral Service at 12:30 p.m. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Roy’s memory may be made to All Care Hospice, c/o Development Office, 210 Market Street, Lynn, MA 01901.
To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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