John F. Vaccaro

August 11, 2023, John Francis Vaccaro, 98, of Dedham, MA, passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife of 72 years, Grace, at his side. He was surrounded by the love of family and close friends. John was the proud father of Karen Vatalaro and husband Vito of Brockton, Cheryl Galvin and husband Joseph of Canton, Janice Donovan and husband Christopher "Jimmy" of Sharon. Cherished grandfather of Robert, Alicia, Joseph, Matthew and Charlie. Adoring great-grandfather of Mia, Joseph, Jillian, Haley, Matthew, Theresa, CJ, Myles and Sophia. John leaves behind sisters Elizabeth Cook of Westwood and Barbara Attaway of Dedham. He was the brother of the late Leo Vaccaro, Domenic Vaccaro and Rose Balmain. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews and life-long friends who were chosen family.  John was born July 1, 1925 in Dedham, MA to Giuseppe and Philomena Vaccaro. From a very early age, John learned the value of helping family by devoting himself to a strong work ethic. He enlisted in the Navy and served in World War II. After returning from the war, John established himself back in the Dedham/Hyde Park area by meeting the love of his life, Grace. Once married, he began working at Marascio’s Market in Hyde Park, where he ran a successful business for 60 years. He was known as ‘The Sausage King’ and his business received great accolades in the community and was featured on Chronicle and the book, Sometimes They Sang With Us. His generosity extended far beyond the scope of his work, making sure those in need never went without groceries. Every child that walked in the store walked out with a free ice-cream, slush, lollipop or treat!  John was also a proud member of the VFW, Bocce Club, American Legions, Sons of Italy and Italian American Club where he served as President for many years. He also belonged to St. Anne’s church and devoted much of his time and financial support, helping with collections every Sunday morning.  His greatest accomplishment was his family! He had a magnanimous personality that drew people in and kept relationships thriving. He leaves a legacy of love, laughter and long-lasting relationships!  Visiting hours will be held at the Carroll-Thomas Funeral Home, 22 Oak St., Hyde Park, on Wednesday, August 16th from 4-8pm. Please join the family at the Carroll-Thomas Funeral Home Thursday morning at 9:30 followed by a funeral mass at St. Anne’s Church, 90 West Milton St. Hyde Park, at 10:30 am on Thursday, August 17th. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Burial and interment to follow at Fairview Cemetery, 45 Fairview Ave. Hyde Park, MA.  Please in lieu of flowers all donations can be made to St Jude's Children's Research Hospital www.stjude.org.

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