OBITUARY: Charles J. Amato, 74

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Charles J. Amato, lovingly known as “Chuck,” age 74, of Wilmington and formerly a long-time resident of Tewksbury, passed peacefully on February 27, 2026, surrounded by his family, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Born on March 7, 1951, in Woburn, he was the beloved son of the late John and Marjorie (Lavacchia) Amato. Chuck was raised and educated in Woburn and was a proud graduate of Woburn High School.

Following high school, Chuck began a career in the printing industry that spanned more than 40 years. He dedicated himself to his craft and formed many lasting friendships along the way while working for Murry Printing, ZBR Publications, and Currier Westford Printing. He was known as a dependable and hardworking employee who truly valued his co-workers.

In April of 1975, Chuck married his sweetheart, Gail Wagstaff. Together they settled in Tewksbury, where they raised their beloved son, Nicholas, who was their pride and joy. Chuck was a devoted husband and father, always present to encourage Nick and cheer him on in every endeavor. When Nick married his wife, Erin, she became like a daughter to Chuck, and he loved her as his own.

Chuck’s most cherished role was that of “Papa” to his grandsons, Andrew and Tyler. He adored his boys and treasured every moment spent with them. Several years ago, Chuck and Gail, along with Nick and his family, moved to Wilmington, where they created a beautiful home. This allowed Chuck to see the kids every day and his love is built into the very walls of that home. Whether he was coaching Nick’s teams years ago or, more recently, using his walker in the backyard to play catch with his grandsons, he was a constant, loving presence.

Chuck was a devoted and “die-hard” fan of the Boston Red Sox. He attended and watched countless games over the years and was thrilled to see them win the pennant more than once in his lifetime. An avid fisherman, Chuck especially enjoyed time spent on the water with his long-time friends and co-workers, Kevin O’Neil, Jack Foster, and Andy Hagan. Additionally, he enjoyed spending time with his life-long childhood friend, Joey Capaldo, who never stopped visiting or taking him on outings over the years. Joey’s steadfast friendship, even as the disease progressed, was a true testament to the bond they shared.

Chuck will be remembered as a good man with a great heart. With his quiet demeanor and generous spirit, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. His family and friends were his world, and he will forever be loved and deeply missed by all who knew him.

Chuck was the beloved husband of 50 years to Gail (Wagstaff) Amato; devoted father of Nicholas Amato and his wife Erin of Wilmington; and loving “Papa” of Andrew and Tyler Amato. He was the dear brother of Jacquelyn Langenfeld and her husband Charlie of Nashua, NH. He is also survived by his special sister-in-law who was always there to help in any way she could, Beverly (Wagstaff) Hanson of Andover and her late husband Jim; his brothers-in-law, Bernie Wagstaff and his wife Joan of Tewksbury, and Michael Wagstaff of Pelham, NH. He was a cherished uncle to many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Family and friends will gather at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, on Saturday, March 7th, for Visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, followed by a Service at 12:00 noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chuck’s memory may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, MA Chapter, P.O. Box 272, Sharon, MA 02067.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.