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February 10, 2021


September 28,1948–February 10, 2021

Our beloved Charlie passed away on February 10, 2021 at the age of 72, after suffering a cardiac arrest.

He leaves behind his wife, Deborah Plunkett of Boston; brother, Albert Vaccaro and his wife, Gwen, of Venice, Florida; sister, Angela Sironi of Peabody, MA; brother-in-laws Michael Plunkett and his wife, Jan, of Columbus, Ohio, and Timothy Plunkett, Cleveland, Ohio; nephews Mark Sironi and his wife, Shaine, and their son, Anthony Sironi, Tewksbury, MA; Eric Sironi and his wife, Diana and their twin sons, Quinn and Roman, Peabody, MA; cousins Jack Arena and his wife, Rose Marie, of Boston; Carole O’Blenes, NYC and Salem, MA; Marcia Polese and her husband, Charles McSweeney of Manchester by the Sea, MA, Al Lawrence Polese, South Grafton, MA, and many other relatives and friends around the world.

He is predeceased by his parents Albert M. Vaccaro, Sr. and Aurora C. Vaccaro (Arena).

Charlie was a unique individual who could easily connect with anyone because he was truly interested in their lives. He could speak on any subject, whether it was the newest scientific development or the latest sports score. He was devoted to Deborah, his wife of 33 years, and a soft-hearted “father" to their two dogs, Pina and Hana, who predeceased him.

He dedicated his scientific career researching cures for pulmonary diseases, working first with the Pulmonary Center at Boston University School of Medicine, and later with the Genzyme Corporation.

His other passion and subsequent business, the love of decorative arts and antiques, had him traveling throughout the US and Europe, especially to Italy, to find distinctive furniture, paintings, ceramics, and lighting.

Charlie was a generous and supportive husband, brother, uncle and friend. As one colleague and friend shared, “Charlie was a terrific guy, he was there for you, he made the world a better place. We’ve truly lost someone very special.”

The family is forever grateful to the EMTs, paramedics, firemen, police officers, doctors and nurses who worked to save his life, and the BMC chaplains and therapy dog, Luie, who comforted Charlie during his last hours.

Gifts in his memory may be sent to MSPCA-Angell, 350 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130.

Due to COVID restrictions, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Content is coming soon...
Casper Funeral Services
187 Dorchester Street
Boston, MA 02127