George L. Melisi, Vietnam Veteran

George Louis Melisi, 75, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on August 29, 2023 after a heroic battle with cancer. Those who knew him will remember his humor, smile, and generosity towards all. Everyone loved George.

George was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on April 11, 1948 and was raised in Arlington. He was the son of the late George Melisi and Mary (Cavallaro) Melisi. He was a graduate of Arlington High School and then attended Burdett College and Boston State where he earned an associates degree in Business and was a collegiate athlete. Soon after, George was drafted into the United States Army where he served overseas in Vietnam. During that time, George earned a Purple Heart for his courageous service. He then pursued his career as a meat cutter, a trade he learned at a young age working at Quincy Market with his father. His passion for meat cutting led him to venture into opening a family business, Meat Merchants and Butcher’s Pride, for over twenty five years. He ended his professional career as a meat manager at Market Basket.

George married the love of his life, Carol, who he proposed to after just 5 short months. He knew she was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.They later welcomed a son Ryan and daughter Jessie. George’s family was everything to him and he put them above all else. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Nothing brought him more joy than attending his kids and grandchildren’s events; he was their biggest cheerleader. They were blessed to spend so much time together over the years.

George had many passions in life. He enjoyed weightlifting, music, skiing, playing hockey (which he was doing up until the age of 74), and of course riding his Harley. He was a jack of all trades; he was the go-to person for advice on anything and was always willing to share his knowledge. George had a wonderful childhood. He would often reminisce about his time spent in Nahant, adventures on his family farm in Vermont, and his time spent on his parent’s boat, the MarDeb.

George is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 47 years, Carol A. (Flynn) Melisi, of Billerica, MA; son, Ryan Melisi of Billerica, MA; daughter Jessie Dunn and husband Tom of Billerica, MA; grandchildren whom he adored Camryn, Tommy, and Reese Dunn; sister, Deborah Viscomi and husband William of Hull, MA; brother, Kenneth Melisi and longtime partner Maggie Rockwell of Arlington, MA along with many other beloved family and friends.

Per George’s request, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Billerica Country Club, 51 Baldwin Rd. Billerica, MA on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. where we will honor his legacy. At 6 pm, there will be a Veteran Military Service followed by dinner. Please feel free to come by for just a drink or stay for dinner. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation at www.npcf.us in George’s name.