John ‘Johnny’ Maselli, 1947–2026

The world needs more people like Johnny Maselli. Kind to his core and quietly generous, Johnny always had a smile and a pleasant word to share. He was truly both a gentle man and a gentleman.

John Maselli was born on July 31, 1947, along with his twin sister, Joanne, to the late Vincent and Louise (Abbondanzio) Maselli. Raised in Waltham, he graduated from Waltham Vocational Trade High School. After graduation, he began his career as a draftsman but soon followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a baker at Mazzola’s Bakery in Newton.

Known affectionately as “Johnny” to his family, friends, and all who met him, he later managed the day-to-day operations at Manero Catering. Never one to shy away from hard work, he also spent mornings working for more than 30 years at the Gulf Service Station on Main Street in Waltham. For the past two decades, Johnny was the friendly face at Costco—a cheerful greeter whose warmth made every customer’s day a little brighter. He continued working until he became ill just seven weeks ago.

Johnny died Saturday, March 28, 2026 in Lahey Medical Center in Burlington. He was 78.

Johnny loved good food and fine dining at some of the great establishments in Boston, often calling ahead to make sure baked stuffed lobster was on the menu. He took pride in his home and garden, always keeping both beautifully maintained and full of life.

After the passing of his parents, Johnny and his sister, Donna dedicated countless hours volunteering, including at the Pine Street Inn. His generosity, kindness, and joyful spirit touched everyone he met—and his memory will continue to do so.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his twin sister who died shortly after infancy, Joanne and his sister, Mary Rose Doucette.

He leaves his sister and best friend, Donna M. Maselli of Waltham and brother, Peter Maselli (Evelina) of Midwest City, Oklahoma; also survived by nieces and nephews and many cousins with whom he remained very close.

Family and friends will honor and remember Johnny’s life by gathering for an Evening Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Monday, April 6th from 4 to 7 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Mary’s Church, 133 School Street, Waltham where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Newton Cemetery, Newton.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.