Purple Heart Recipient, Man with 13 Grandchildren and 90 year-old Barbecue Chef Gone

George J. Rozell, Jr., 89, of Auburn, died on Nov. 9 at UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester, following an illness. George was a proud veteran of World War II, serving as a paratrooper in the US Army and being stationed in the European Theater. He saw service in the Ardennes in Belgium and the Rhineland. He received as Purple Heart for injuries during battle and three Bronze Service Stars.

John M. Risotti Sr., 90, died on the evening of Nov. 7 after a short period of failing health. He was the husband of Eva (Spurio) Risotti to whom he was married for 67 years.

Every summer for over 37 years he served as head chef for the St. Ann's Church's chicken barbecue which was a part of the annual St. Anthony's Festival.

Paul B. Newman, 60, of Shrewsbury, died Nov. 9 at home, following a battle with cancer. He served several years with the Air National Guard. Paul worked for 15 years for Spag’s Supply of Shrewsbury before his illness.

Hortensia (Adam) Habib, of Northborough, died unexpectedly on Nov. 6. She was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, only daughter of Lebanese immigrants Joaquin and Rosa (Fiod) Adam.

John “Jack” Joseph McDermott, 75, died Nov. 6 at home surrounded by his loving family. He leaves his devoted wife of 51 years, Margaret “Peggy” F. (Leary) McDermott.

McDermott served in the US Army from 1961 to 1966 as a 1st Lieutenant. He  was the former owner and operator of American Auto Lease in Framingham and worked for Century 21 Realty in Framingham from 1992 until his retirement.

Victor P. Tessari, 86, of Northborough died peacefully on Nov. 9 in Marlboro Hills Healthcare Center. He leaves his devoted wife of 64 years, Olga (Morigi) Tessari, four daughters, three sons, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was a WW II veteran and had worked RCA in the computer division in Needham.