Charles DiSabatino Sr.
A man who touched many hearts
Charles (Charlie) DiSabatino Sr. died on March 10 at the age of 98.
He was known for his devotion to his family, his good humor, his outrageous puns, and his exceptionally generous nature.
Charles and his twin brother, Albert were born in 1920 in Everett to Rose and Liberato DiSabatino. At the age of 19, Charlie took his sister, Mary to a dance in Revere where he saw a beautiful woman in a grey dress across the room. He danced every dance with her and took her class ring home at the end of the night, so that he had an excuse to visit her the next day. Two years later Charlie married Flora Cirillo and they celebrated their 75th anniversary last July.
A man of many interests, Charlie enjoyed boating and took his family on frequent outings on Lake Winnipesaukee. He was an avid HAM and CB radio enthusiast and, along with his brother, Frank, would receive communications from all over the world. Charles also enjoyed an active lifestyle and a Tuesday night would often find him out square-dancing with his beloved wife. Charlie enjoyed a long career as the manager of a film processing lab, which processed film clips for the 6 o’clock news and developed film for most of the college football teams in the area. Charlie photographed the Chelsea Fire and the blackout of 1968.
He had his own company called Boston Video for many years. He was forced to retire due to ill health, but he never lost his enjoyment of life or his intense devotion to his family. He remained the focal point of family gatherings, even to an advanced old age. At such parties, he was known to eat very slowly, savouring each bite, and pausing between bites to enjoy the good company around him. A family famous cook, he taught his family the value of truly enjoying a meal.
Following his retirement, Charles devoted his time to his family and friends. From trips to Disney with his grandchildren to joining a choir called the GrandPops, Charles lived every day to its fullest. He was always willing to help a family member or a friend in need and was unfailingly generous with his time. He will be remembered for his kindness, and gentle, loving spirit.
Charlie is survived by his wife of 75 years, Flora, his two sons, Charles DiSabatino Jr., M.D. and his wife Nancy Olson, M.D. of Hamden, CT, his son Michael of Everett, his daughter, Susan (DiSabatino) Fox and her husband, Patrick of Granby, CT, his two grandchildren, Kathleen and Brendan Fox, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. As a man who touched many hearts, he will be greatly missed. Funeral arrangements were by the Salvatore Rocco and Sons Funeral Home, Everett. Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. For more information: 1-877-71- ROCCO or roccofuneralhomes.com