In Memory of Robert Nicholas Grassi February 25, 1919 – June 14, 2014 Robert N. Grassi, long-time resident of Melrose, MA died peacefully surrounded by his family at Lahey Medical Center on June 14, 2014. He was the beloved husband of Edith A. Grassi for 61 years. Robert was born in New York City, N. Y., son of the late Clement and Anita (D'Archangelis) Grassi. As his mother Anita passed away while Robert was an infant, he was also raised by his late stepmother Mae (Callahan) Grassi. He attended Pratt Institute in NYC where he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1941. After graduation, he worked for Westinghouse Corporation in the design and manufacture of steam turbine engines. He married Edith in 1952, living initially in Philadelphia, PA. Shortly after the birth of their first child, Robert and Edith moved to Massachusetts, settling in Melrose, MA in 1956 where they have resided since. Robert worked for the aircraft engine group at General Electric Corp. in Lynn, MA as a senior engineer, manager and director of the jet engine test lab until his retirement in 1986. He was a Life Member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. As a young man, Robert enjoyed sailing and canoeing. After marriage, he was a dedicated husband and family man. He took great pride in the accomplishments of his wife and children and enjoyed tending to his home and yard. Summers brought tennis and family vacations on Cape Cod. Both he and Edith loved to ballroom dance and spent many Saturday nights dancing to the sound of big band music. After retirement, he looked forward to the camaraderie of the GE Old Timers Association. He was a faithful member of the Parish of the Incarnation in Melrose for many years. He is survived by his beloved wife, Edith A. Grassi and is the loving father of his two children: Dr .Clement J. and his wife Santina (Marchica) Grassi of Winchester, MA and Dr. Anita M. Grassi and her husband G. William Buttwin of Lincoln, MA. He is the cherished grandfather of Christina M. and Robert M. Grassi of Winchester, MA. He also is survived by many nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Saturday, June 21st at 8:45AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in the Church of the Incarnation, 425 Upham St., Melrose at 10AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours on Friday from 4-8PM. Burial in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Catholic Relief Services, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21297-0303 or www.crs.org. For directions & to sign online condolence visit www.gatelyfh.com