ROSSI, Charles Gerald age 93, of Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington, and Scottsdale, AZ, was a much-beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He passed away peacefully on March 28, 2023, just 10 weeks after his wife and best friend, Rita, made her departure from this world. In Charlie's final days, he was comforted by the presence of his family, especially his children, Ava, Deborah and Paul, to whom he dedicated his life.

Those who knew Charlie will always remember his ingenuity, integrity, and work ethic, which led him on a path from the Brooklyn tenement where he was born to become a U.S. serviceman stationed in Panama and, later, a successful and respected business owner in the Boston area. His life was the American Dream.

In 1959, Charlie and Rita opened Rita's Place, a humble sub shop in Chelsea that quickly morphed into a renowned Italian restaurant and lives on today as Rita's Catering of Everett. For 50 years, the couple spent their days side-by-side, doing what they loved most: cooking and developing new recipes for their customers. With his special gift of banter, Charlie made every customer at Rita's feel special and inspired many laughs along the way. But he was also a quiet leader and mentor, admired by the employees he worked with—many of whom he considered family.

This is the love story that has brought Rita and Charlie together eternally after 72 years of marriage.

All who knew Charlie are invited to a celebration of his life at Mt Auburn Cemetery's Bigelow Chapel, on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 10 am to 11:30 am. Following a brief service, there will be an entombment. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider making a donation to your local food pantry or farm in need. Please visit devitofuneralhomes.com to leave an online condolence.