John A. Reale, age 96, of Burlington, MA, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 18, 2026. He was the devoted husband of the late Rita M. Reale, with whom he shared over 67 wonderful years of marriage prior to her passing in 2025.

Born in Cambridge, MA on November 13, 1929, he was the son of the late Cosmo and Emily (DiDomenico) Reale. John began working for Sears in his early twenties and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Supervisor of all New England stores. It was at Sears that he met the love of his life, Rita. The two were married in 1958 and later settled in Burlington, where they built a beautiful life together and raised their family.

John dedicated 39 years to Sears before retiring just a little early. He often said that work should end at some point so that you can devote your time to the things you truly love. In retirement, he turned his full attention to the carpentry projects he had always enjoyed doing on the side throughout the years. A gifted woodworker and upholsterer, John never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He devoted countless hours to St. Margaret's Church, carefully maintaining its pews and contributing his talents wherever they were needed. Among his proudest accomplishments was the beautiful Nativity set he built, which continues to be displayed and enjoyed each Christmas season.

Countless people benefited from John's remarkable creativity and craftsmanship. No matter the project, he possessed an uncanny ability to create something extraordinary from the simplest materials. His imagination knew no bounds, and the lovingly crafted gifts he made for family, friends, and members of the community remain treasured keepsakes to this day.

Above all else, John cherished time spent with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was also a proud and active member of the Knights of Columbus and greatly valued the friendships he formed there. Thursday mornings were reserved for his cherished "coffee club" gatherings at Dunkin', where he and his friends met weekly to share stories, catch up on life, and maintain the close bonds they had built over the years.

At his core, John was a hardworking, dependable, and generous man. He dedicated his life to his family, worked tirelessly to create lasting memories, and served as a steady source of strength, guidance, and support for those who loved him. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the projects he created, and the family he cherished so deeply. He will be greatly missed.

John is survived by his loving children, Mary Knowles of Billerica, Daniel Reale & his wife Diane of Burlington, the late Joseph Reale and late John Reale; his cherished grandchildren, Coreen Knowles, Rebecca Knowles, Madilyn Knowles, Steven Reale & his wife Erika, Joseph Reale & his wife Allison, Daniel Reale & his wife Leslie, and Anthony Reale; his beloved great-grandchildren, Keegan, Lyla, Cameron, Jullian, Kendall, Payton, Kennedy, and Bowen, as well as many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend John’s Funeral Mass on Wednesday, September 23rd at 10 am at St. Margaret’s Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington. Burial will immediately follow in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Burlington.