Rose M. (Vistola) McKenna, age 97, died on June 13, 2024, at the Mary Immaculate Nursing and Restorative Center in Lawrence, MA.
Rose was born in East Boston, MA on Friday, June 13, 1927, to the late Louis and Pauline (Licari) Vistola. After living as a child in Woburn, she was a longtime resident of Tewksbury, MA, where she and late husband Henry raised sons Paul and William (Bill). Rose worked as a secretary, in the produce department at Demoulas Super Markets, and at the Tewksbury Hospital childcare center. She was a devoted mother, and a loving noni (grandmother) and great-grandmother.
Rose was a seasoned camper, spending time each summer with her husband and sons at the Saco River Camping Area. She also loved painting, baking and quilting. Most of all, Rose loved spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her kindness, joy, and giving spirit.
At age 91, Rose was recognized by the Tewksbury Senior Center for over 35 years of service as a volunteer. She served on the Tewksbury Council on Aging as a member and as Council Chair, and was President of the Tewksbury Senior Center Golden Age Club. Rose was an active member of many groups and proudly organized and led trips for other seniors, traveling throughout the Northeast, across the country, and even internationally. Rose loved spending time at the Senior Center and treasured the many deep and long-lasting friendships made there.
Rose was predeceased by her husband, Henry McKenna; her son Bill McKenna; and siblings, Louis Vistola and Catherine Salamone. She is survived by her beloved sister Connie Carlson of Seabrook, NH; son Paul McKenna and Maria of Derry, NH; daughter-in-law Pam McKenna of Windham, NH; grandchildren Brent, Wade, Daniel, and Kathleen McKenna; great-grandchildren SeAna, Brynn, Colin, Addison, Riley, Lily, and Molly, and many nieces, nephews and great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be held at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury on Friday, June 28 from 4:00-7:00. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11: 30 a.m. at St. William’s Church, 1351 Main Street, Route 38, in Tewksbury on Saturday, June 29th. Those planning to attend her Mass are asked to please meet at church. Family and friends are invited to gather in the church hall after the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Friends of the Elderly, c/o Tewksbury Senior Center, 175 Chandler Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876.
Rose’s family wishes to thank the staff at Mary Immaculate Nursing and Restorative Center for the highest level of professional and loving care that she received throughout her time there.