A lover of sports and horses who enjoyed traveling, gardening and good food
NORTH READING — Charles Demetri, beloved husband of the late Rosalie (Vassallo) Demetri, passed away on Sunday, October 8, 2023, with his beloved family at his side. Having just celebrated his 83rd birthday, Charles was born on October 4, 1940 to the late Demetri “Miti” Rafael and Olga (Papa Argjiri) Demetri.
Charles grew up in Dorchester. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, followed by the United States Air Force. He married the love of his life, Rosalie, in April of 1973 and they settled in North Reading to raise their family. He owned and operated Boston Thermo King, a trucking and refrigeration company in South Boston.
Charles was a lover of sports and horses. He owned his own race horses with his brothers and enjoyed spending time at the track. He also loved football, both college and professional, giving the games a little more excitement with bets. Charles was always a sharp dresser and excellent dancer. He and his wife enjoyed traveling all over the world, gardening, enjoying a night out for dinner and simply being with one another. Charles loved to eat good food, and that good food just happened to be Rose’s cooking and he also had a big sweet tooth. A dessert was never safe and always enjoyed.
Charles was a devoted family man. He was a great mentor to his children, nieces, nephews and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed for his love and comfort that he provided to his loving family.
Charles was the devoted father of Dean Demetri of North Reading, Kimberly Demetri of North Reading and Michael Demetri and his longtime partner Elizabeth Whitla of Boston. He was the cherished grandfather of Danny, Jennifer and Dean James, Jr. “DJ” Demetri and Mace Carfaro and the beloved great-grandfather of Aubrey, Cameron and Cole. He is the loving brother of Shirley Bellavance of North Reading and the late Peter Demetri, Louise Hicks and James Demetri. Charles is also the beloved uncle of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He leave many friends and extended family as well.
Family and friends gathered for visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 from 4 to 8 p.m.
A Celebration of Charles’ life will be held at the Cota Funeral Home on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at 11 a.m., followed by burial in Riverside Cemetery, North Reading.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Charles’ memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (stjude.org).
For information, directions and to leave an online condolence, please visit cotafuneralhomes.com.