Michael Gaetano Messina, age 76, of Tewksbury, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on May 23, 1950, he was the son of the late Salvatore Joseph Messina, who was born in Sicily, Italy, and the late Myrtice Olean (MacMullan) Messina, a native of Mississippi.
Michael proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from October 7, 1968, to October 7, 1970, during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class. His deep patriotism, born of that service, remained with him throughout his life.
Following his military service, Michael built a long and dedicated career in the defense industry, serving 28 years as an assistant manager at Raytheon.
Michael was an avid lover of German Shepherds and shared his life with five of them over the years. He worked to earn a therapy dog certificate for his beloved German Shepherd, Toby, and together they volunteered at VA hospitals, bringing comfort and companionship to fellow veterans. A homebody at heart, Michael took great pride in his home and yard, always working to make things just right. Above all, he was a good man.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Sharon (Temple) Messina, with whom he exchanged vows on August 26, 1989; his brother, Phillip Messina and his wife Dawn of North Conway, NH; his sisters, Maria Rush of Florida and Suzanne Messina of Beverly; his sister-in-law, Colleen Messina of Maine and Florida; and his many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, the late Robert Messina, and his sister, the late Diana Sagarese.
At the his request, there will be no services.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Michael Gaetano Messina may be made to the German Shepherd Rescue of New England at https://gsrne.org/donate-new/.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Tewksbury Funeral Home, 1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876. For additional information or to offer an online condolence, please visit www.tewksburyfuneralhome.com.