Cota Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service

Cota Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service Our family serving your family in a time of need. Since 1932, Cota Funeral Homes has serviced families representing many faiths.

We have become familiar with the varied traditions in burying a loved one. Traditional services with visitation and burial:
Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; use of facilities for viewing; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Traditional services and burial, without visitation:
Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Traditional services with cremation:
Includes: Same as above two selections, except services end with cremation. Direct cremation:
Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the crematory. Immediate burial:
Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the cemetery. Memorial services:
Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the cemetery or crematory; memorial services in the funeral home or church after cremation or burial without the deceased present. Cremains may be present at the memorial services. We are always open
to tailor any of the above services
to your specifications. We are also available to assist with
insurance papers, veterans and social security
forms and benefits.

In Loving Memory of Eugene “Gene” CormierJune 1, 1956 – October 17, 2025Eugene "Gene" Cormier, 69, of North Reading, Mas...
10/22/2025

In Loving Memory of Eugene “Gene” Cormier
June 1, 1956 – October 17, 2025

Eugene "Gene" Cormier, 69, of North Reading, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 17, 2025. Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose strength, humor, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.
Survived by his loving wife, Janet; his children Phillip (fiancé Stacey), Nicole (husband Edwin), and Robert (wife Allison); and his cherished grandchildren Scarlett, Wyatt, and Jolee. He is also survived by his mother, Diana; his brother Robert (wife Christine); and his sister Rose. He was predeceased by his father, Aurele, and his brother Paul (surviving wife Nancy).

Self-employed, Gene built everything from single-family homes to large developments across the North Shore. He was known for his work ethic, integrity, and commitment to quality, earning trust through his craftsmanship and the lasting relationships he built.
Gene lived life to the fullest and found joy in every season. He was an avid motorcyclist, boater, skier, marksman, and a lifelong Bruins fan. He had a deep love for travel, especially when it involved the open road. Gene took great pleasure in planning and mapping out unforgettable motorcycle trips with family and friends, always leading the pack — both on the road and in spirit. One of his greatest passions was spending time in his barn restoring antique motorcycles, taking pride in bringing old machines back to life. Beyond riding, he enjoyed skiing getaways and tropical vacations with his family, creating lasting memories wherever they went. He was an active and enthusiastic member of the Harley Owners Group (HOG), the Antique Motorcycle Club of America, and the Andover Sportsman’s Club, where he shared his passions with others.
He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his loyalty to those he loved, and the quiet strength that anchored his family. Gene had a sharp wit and great sense of humor that brought laughter to every room. He leaves behind countless memories, timeless stories, and the satisfaction of a life well lived.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, November 8, 10:30 a.m. at St. Theresa’s Church in North Reading. Immediately following service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at Teresa’s Prime in North Reading. “Motorcycle shirts encouraged”.
Please omit flowers and consider a donation to Dr. Jeremy Schmahmann's research at Massachusetts General Hospital. Please include that the gift is a tribute to Eugene Cormier. Gifts may be made online at www.giving.MassGeneral.org/donate. Checks should be made payable to “Massachusetts General Hospital” and mailed to the MGH Development Office, 125 Nashua Street, Ste 540, Boston, MA 02114. www.cotafuneral.com
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Macarelli, Joseph M. “Joe” -Of Tewksbury Oct. 18th. Beloved husband of the late Patricia (Martini). Father of Justin Hal...
10/22/2025

Macarelli, Joseph M. “Joe” -Of Tewksbury Oct. 18th. Beloved husband of the late Patricia (Martini). Father of Justin Halloran, Michael Macarelli, Crystal Collins and the late Shaun Halloran. Brother of Louise Macarelli, Ricky Macarelli and the late Bobby Macarelli.

Funeral service in the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte.28) NORTH READING, at Reading line on Saturday, Oct. 25th at 1pm. Relatives and friends may visit at the funeral home Saturday from 10am -1pm. Interment will be private.

Joe was a veteran of the US Airforce and a proud member of the Somerville Police force for over 30 years retiring as Detective - Seargent.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905.

www.cotafuneral.com

Zimmerman, James Richard (Jim) of Tewksbury died on October 8th, 2025. Husband of Mary (Faucette) and son of the late Ed...
10/10/2025

Zimmerman, James Richard (Jim) of Tewksbury died on October 8th, 2025. Husband of Mary (Faucette) and son of the late Edwin and Marie Zimmerman. Jim was born in Denver Colorado on March 22, 1948. He grew up in Malden, MA and graduated from Malden High School in 1966. He served in the Army reserves during the Vietnam War. Jim met the love of his life Mary and married her in 1969. It was a Medford /Malden love story. They lived in Malden and in Medford then settled in Tewksbury in 1979. There they raised their four sons and supported them in all their sporting adventures. Jim was the boy’s biggest fan.
Jim was an avid golfer who played at Unicorn Gold Course in Stoneham. He was a member of the Bandits and will be sorely missed by all his special golf buddies. Jim also bowled at the Town Line bowling alley in Malden and had many friends there as well. If there was a Patriots, Red Sox or Bruins game on, Jim was right there watching. He had many close friends some for over 40 years.
Jim worked for Simons Uniform Company of Lynn, MA for over 50 years. Along the way, his many customers also became his good friends. He was always willing to help a new mailman dress up properly for the job. They all supported him for many years, because he really cared about them. Jim’s personality made a positive impact on those around him. Jim was known for cracking jokes and sharing stories. He was a people person and will be missed by all who knew him.
Surviving Jim is his loving wife Mary of 55 years. His children Brian and his wife Erica, Jeff and his partner Sara, Kevin and his partner Zoe and the late James Jr. (Jimbo) who died in 2007. He was the loving Papa of ten grandchildren; Lexi, Max, Katie, Brian Jr, Marina, Jacob, Josie, Athena, Noah James and Joshua. Jim is the brother of Skip Zimmerman and his wife Angela and late Paul Zimmerman.
You can remember Jim by living your life to the fullest, by playing a round of golf in his memory and by hugging a loved one every day.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours in the Cota Family Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading (corner of Park St., and Rte.28) at Reading line on Tuesday, Oct. 14th from 4-7pm. A memorial service will take place following the visitation at 7pm. Interment will be private. Donations may be made in James’s name to Beth Israel Lahey Health, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center office of Philanthropy, 529 Main St., 4th Floor Charlestown, MA 02129. www.cotafuneral.com

Almeida, Carol A. (Stewart) -Of Reading, Oct. 5th. Mother of Stacy Guarracino and her husband Alfonso of Reading. Daught...
10/08/2025

Almeida, Carol A. (Stewart) -Of Reading, Oct. 5th. Mother of Stacy Guarracino and her husband Alfonso of Reading. Daughter of the late Albert and Rita (Mitchell) Stewart. Grandmother of Michael and Marcus Guarracino, who she especially enjoyed spending time with during her retirement. Carol is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Carol was born in Boston and spent her younger years growing up in Roxbury where she attended the Holy Trinity School. As a teenager she moved to Reading and graduated from Reading Memorial High School. She later attended and earned her associates degree from Northeastern University. Carol worked for the US Department of Transportation as a Right-of-Way Program Manager for the Federal Highway Administration. She worked for the FHWA for 42 years before retiring.

Carol’s funeral will be held from the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28), NORTH READING, at Reading line, on Tuesday, Oct. 14th at 9:30 am. Funeral Mass in St. Agnes Church, 186 Woburn St., Reading at 10:30 am. Relatives and friends may visit at the funeral home on Monday from 4 thru 7pm. Interment Riverside Cemetery, North Reading. www.cotafuneral.com

Mary Farrell- 97 passed away on September 22,2025 at Pilgrim Nursing Home. Born in Somerville to the late Louis and Mary...
09/25/2025

Mary Farrell- 97 passed away on September 22,2025 at Pilgrim Nursing Home.

Born in Somerville to the late Louis and Mary (Sullivan). Mary was the sister of the late John Farrell, Lillian Ryan, Roseann Hackett and Richard Farrell. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Mary grew up in Somerville and graduated from St Joseph’s School. She worked for many years for John Hancock Insurance Company as an administrator.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Graveside Service for Mary in Forest Glade Cemetery, 470 Lowell St., Wakefield on Monday September 29, 2025 at 11:00 am. Please meet at the main entrance of the cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of the Cota Family Funeral Home, North Reading. www.cotafuneral.com

Paul H. Shaak- of Reading formerly of Medford, Sept. 17 at the age of 78. Loving husband of Stephanie Rubbicco Shaak. So...
09/23/2025

Paul H. Shaak- of Reading formerly of Medford, Sept. 17 at the age of 78. Loving husband of Stephanie Rubbicco Shaak. Son of the late Paul Shaak Sr. and Hazel Briand Shaak. Brother of Sally Medico Anastasio, Ann Marie Crocket and Susan Penta. Father of Heather Durant, Katrina Albright and Victoria Heacock. Step father of Christine Napier, Melissa Trenga and Joseph Fiumara. Grandfather of 17 and great grandfather of 3.

Paul and Stephanie met in September 1964 at Medford Hight School, dated for one year then went their separate ways. After 34 years, they reunited, fell in love, got married and spent 24 years together.

One of the things Paul was very proud of was serving his country in the Army during the Vietnam War. Paul enjoyed playing golf, especially his Friday tee time with his best friend Ralph Ford. He also loved to cook and made the best chicken vegetable soup and baked the best Biscotti’s. Paul enjoyed traveling, cruises, a trip to Maine but his “Happy Place” was Aruba. He liked reading, painting, going out to dinner and going to the casino. He was very proud of his family, especially his grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

Paul also enjoyed fishing and often told the story of how every Memorial Day weekend he would go on a fishing trip to the Connecticut Lakes with his dad, uncles and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Paul’s family on Monday, Sept. 29th from 9am-12pm in the Cota Family Funeral Home, 335 Park St., (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at Reading line. A memorial service will be held following the visitation at 12noon. Interment will be private. Please omit flower and make donations in Paul’s name to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905. www.cotafuneral.com

Patricia “Patty” Tripoli, of North Andover, passed away on September 9th, 2025 at the age of 75. Born in Everett in 1950...
09/11/2025

Patricia “Patty” Tripoli, of North Andover, passed away on September 9th, 2025 at the age of 75. Born in Everett in 1950 to the late Domenic Santora and Clara (Iagallo) Mazzie, Patricia attended Saint Joseph’s School in Everett and later pursued a career as a hairdresser and master colorist, a profession she truly enjoyed and excelled in.
Patricia was married to the late Richard Tripoli, with whom she shared many joyful years, along with their beloved boxers, Bruno and Poa. Prior to that, she was married to Anthony Spagnolo, with whom she maintained a lifelong friendship. Patricia is survived by her cherished son, Michael Spagnolo, and her grandson, Anthony Spagnolo.
She is also survived by her sister, Tania Iagallo, and three cousins—Teresa Dunleavy, Janet Chirichiello, and Diane Troiano—who were like sisters to her. Patricia leaves behind many loving extended family members and friends, including Lisa Leo and Kristine Holloran, whom she affectionately referred to as her “nieces.”
Patricia was known for her deep faith and devotion to the Catholic Church, as well as her everyday joys: Dunkin’ Donuts coffee and a low-fat blueberry muffin, treasure hunts at TJ Maxx, dinners at the 99, and her signature love of black clothing, her favorite color. Her humor and unmistakable style will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Patricia’s family on Friday Sept. 19th from 9-10:30am in the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., (corner of Park St. and Rte.28) North Reading at Reading line. Patricia’s funeral procession will begin at the funeral home at 10:30am and process to St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St., (rte. 62) North Reading for a Mass of Christian burial at 11am. Interment will take please following her mass at Ridgewood Cemetery, North Andover. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patricia’s memory to Second Chance Boxer Rescue or Compassionate Care Hospice in Woburn. For guest book and online memorials please visit www.cotafuneral.com

John A. Cardillo, beloved husband Adeline (Venezia) Cardillo, passed away on September 6, 2025 at his home, with his lov...
09/09/2025

John A. Cardillo, beloved husband Adeline (Venezia) Cardillo, passed away on September 6, 2025 at his home, with his loving family at his side. Born in Boston, John is loving son of the late John and Josephine (Perriello) Cardillo.

John grew up in the North End of Boston and was a graduate of Christopher Columbus High School. He then attended and earned his Associate's Degree from Bryant and Stratton.
With a passion for baking, John co- owned and operated the Caradonna Pastry Shop in Somerville for many years. When it came time to sell his business, John did not settle down, he then worked for the Elm Street Bakery in Everett.

When John wasn't cooking for his family and baking for holidays, he enjoyed traveling all around the world. His favorite places were Spain and Italy. John was an easy-going kind of guy, loved by many. As a husband and father, John provided and cared deeply for his family. He will be deeply missed by not only his wife Adeline and daughter Jillian, but by many loving family members and friends.

In addition to being the beloved husband of Adeline, John is the devoted Father of Jillian Cardillo of Arlington, Virginia. Loving brother of Anthony Cardillo of Chelsea, Joanne Cardillo of New Hampshire and the late Benjamin Cardillo and his wife Louisa Cardillo of Somerville. John is the cherished uncles to many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are cordially invited to visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading on Monday, September 15th from 9:30 to 10:30am.

Following the visitation, a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Theresa's Church, 63 Winter St. North Reading at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in John's Memory to A Charity of One's Choice.

For information, directions and to leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotafuneral.com

James Francis Cockroft, 73, entered into rest at his home in Milford, MA, held in the spirit of those he loved most. Bor...
09/05/2025

James Francis Cockroft, 73, entered into rest at his home in Milford, MA, held in the spirit of those he loved most. Born in Philadelphia in 1951, Jim was the cherished son of the late Matilda Gartner and John Cockroft. He was the devoted brother of Jack Cockroft, Patricia Berry, and Mary Hall, and a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is survived by his former wife, Mary Cockroft, with whom he shared two wonderful children, Jessica Lowe (34) and James Cockroft (32).

In addition to being a devoted father, Jim was “Pop Pop” to Declan and Quinn Lowe, who brought him endless joy. He spent countless hours pushing Quinn on the swings, taking Declan on “big truck” adventures, and making weekly summer outings a cherished tradition—whether exploring a new park or beach, tending the garden, reading books, grabbing lunch at Christopher’s, or enjoying slushies together. He was a playmate, an adventurer, and a constant source of love, laughter, and stories that will be remembered forever.

A graduate of Marist University, Class of 1973, Jim rowed on the lightweight 8 for the Red Foxes and served as team captain. He remained one of the program’s most devoted alumni, admired for his constant presence at races across the East Coast, his ability to bring together generations of oarsmen, and his unwavering pride in the Marist rowing community. Well into his sixties, he continued racing in regattas such as the Head of the Charles and actively encouraged alumni to stay involved. He was especially looking forward to the honor of having a boat dedicated in his name during alumni weekend on September 20th.

Jim enjoyed a long and successful career as an asset and operations manager in the wholesale furniture industry, working with companies including Ethan Allen, Sleepy’s, and Bernie & Phyl’s. Known for his integrity, reliability, and dedication, he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. He rarely missed a day of work and was recognized on multiple occasions as a top salesperson for his commitment and excellence.

Beyond his career, Jim found true happiness in the outdoors. An avid skier and season pass holder at Wachusett Mountain, he also loved fishing—most recently lobstering with neighbors and close friends in Maine—hiking, cycling, and spending time on the water swimming or rowing. He cherished the quiet joy of nature, especially weekly walks with his grand dog Piper, and any time spent enjoying the open air with family and friends.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, patience, and steady presence. He always showed up for the people he loved and lived with simplicity, honor and integrity. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours with James’ family on Monday, Sept. 8th from 4-6pm in the Cota Family Funeral Home, 335 Park St., (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at Reading line. A service will be held following the visitation at 6pm. Interment will be private. Please omit flowers and make donations in James’ name online
https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/64411/donations/new?designation=mensrowing&


www.cotafuneral.com

Eleanora Rubino Terenzi, of North Reading and formerly of East Boston, passed away on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 pea...
09/04/2025

Eleanora Rubino Terenzi, of North Reading and formerly of East Boston, passed away on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 peacefully at her home. Born in Boston, she is the beloved daughter of the late Luigi and Jennie (Boccuzzi) Rubino.

Eleanora was a longtime member of the East Boston Community and graduate of East Boston High School. Having a deep passion for dance, she was a proud scholarship student of the American School of Ballet in New York City. Eleanor opened her own studio, the Eleanor Rubino Academy of Performing Arts. Her long and illustrious career as a dance teacher made her a respected educator in dance and some of her students went on to become professional dancers, Rockettes, NBA Dancers and NFL Cheerleaders, Broadway and cruise ships. Eleanora was the 1st dance teacher inducted into the National Dance Teachers Hall of Fame, she was the past president of the Dance Teachers Club of Boston, Lifetime member of Dance Masters of New England Chapter #5, and was an originator of the only National Medal Test program currently still active in the United States and Italy.

Eleanora’s greatest joy came from being with her family. She enjoyed endless games of Scrabble, knitting, crocheting, and going to the Casino with her best friend Shirley. She was also a devoted Catholic. Eleanora was a loving mother and grandmother and will truly be missed by all who knew her.

Devoted Mother of Peter Terenzi and his late former wife Antionette “Toni” Della Cioppa, Paula Terenzi Byrne and her late husband Richard Byrne of North Reading, Phillip Terenzi and his wife Maureen of Hanover and Paul Terenzi and his wife Maureen of Medford. Cherished grandmother of Marc Terenzi, Michelle Terenzi, Matthew Terenzi and his wife Shannon, Molly Terenzi, and Step Grandson Brendan O’Leary, Great Grandmother of Tyler, Summer, Alex, Aidan and Lucas Matthew. Loving sister of the late Peter, Louis, Freddie, Angie, Mary and Ann. Eleanora leaves many loving nieces and nephews, her Grand Dog Koda and dear friend Shirley Penta.

Funeral to be held from the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. North Reading, (Corner of Park St. and Rt. 28 at the Reading Line) on Monday, September ,8th at 9:30am, Followed by a Funeral Mass to Celebrate Eleanora’s Life at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St., North Reading at 10:30am. Burial to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.

Family and friends are cordially invited to visit with Eleanora’s Family for visiting hours on Sunday, September 7th ,2025 from 3 to 7pm.


In lieu of flowers To honor Eleanora’s legacy, the family kindly invites donations to the Eleanor Rubino Memorial Scholarship Fund, LTD.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 54, North Reading, MA 01864
Your generosity will help support students and continue the spirit of empowerment and excellence that Eleanor cultivated.

For information, directions and to leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotafuneral.com

John R. "Jack" Gillespie, Jr., best friend and loving longtime companion of Mary Byrnes, passed away on Wednesday, Augus...
08/27/2025

John R. "Jack" Gillespie, Jr., best friend and loving longtime companion of Mary Byrnes, passed away on Wednesday, August 20th, 2025. Born and raised in Derry, New Hampshire, Jack is the son of the late John R. and Evelyn F. (Forbes) Gillespie.
Jack is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, earning his degree in electrical engineering. This brought him a long and rewarding career as an engineer and ultimately an executive at various technology companies. His expertise brought him to many countries around the world, but he was always grateful to come home and pursue his hobbies and passions.
Jack had a love for horses early in his life and became a pilot, owning small plane. Eventually, however, he traded in his pilot license for his most rewarding passion of all, the open ocean. Jack was truly his happiest behind the wheel of “Cordial,” his beloved Hinckley Bermuda 40 sailboat. Jack and his first mate Mary enjoyed countless sails on Cordial along the coast of Massachusetts and Maine, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Jack also enjoyed playing tennis and golf and spending time in Hutchinson Island, Florida, his home away from home. Jack was known for his bellowing laugh that could and would take over a room. Forever twenty six at heart, he was a kind, compassionate and loving soul who will be deeply missed.

In addition to being the cherished love of Mary, he held a special relationship with her two children, Michael Byrnes of San Francisco, CA, Matthew Byrnes of Middleton, MA, and Matthew’s former wife Sarah of Newbury, MA. He was especially devoted to Matthew and Sarah’s children Penelope and McKensie. They will miss “Grampa Jack,” his bellowing laugh and soft heart very dearly. So will Maggie (Matt’s French Bulldog) who would dutifully lick away at Jack’s hands for hours.

Jack is also survived by his dear nephews and niece Doug, Terrance, Tim and Amy Culver, children of his late sister Priscilla Culver.
Family and friends are cordially invited to visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading (Corner of Rt. 28 and Park St. at the Reading Line) on Friday, August 29th, from 12 to 2pm.

Following the visitation, a service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at the funeral home at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jack's Memory to helping kids enjoy his beloved passion for sailing at Sail Salem. You may donate online at https://sailsalem.org/donations/ or you may mail in at Sale Salem, 23 Glendale St, Salem, MA 01970.
www.cotafuneral.com

John Michael Harzmovitch, son of the late Paula A. Pedi and John J. Harzmovitch, passed away at Sawtelle Hospice House i...
08/22/2025

John Michael Harzmovitch, son of the late Paula A. Pedi and John J. Harzmovitch, passed away at Sawtelle Hospice House in Reading, Ma. On July 26, 2025, at the age of 61.

Born in Boston, John grew up in North Reading and Andover, Ma. After school, John was a proud member of the Army National Guard. Upon leaving the Guard, he married and raised his children in Londonderry, NH. When his children were grown, he traveled the country and returned to North Reading 8 years ago.

He was known for his compassionate heart, loud deep voice, and his laughter. He loved to make people laugh with his jokes, pranks, silly antics and his love for all New England sports team.

John was happiest when he was with his many friends and his loving family and is already deeply missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to be a part of his life.

He was the father of son Kenneth Harzmovitch and grandfather of Ken’s children Aiden, Corbyn and Sirena, and great-grandfather to Aiden’s son Oliver. Son Michael Harzmovitch and daughter Sarah Harzmovitch (Cody Knighten) and Sarah’s children Kiley, Maddie, Kay, and John.

Cherished brother and uncle of brother Frank Harzmovitch, Frank’s son Mitchell Harzmovitch and Mitchell’s mother Jackie, sisters Doreen Harzmovitch Belkacem and Vicki Harzmovitch and Vicki’s daughter Julianna Fenner.

He was employed by Moynihan Lumber, North Reading at the time of his passing and still went to work for up to two weeks before he passed. Recognized and admired for his determination and unwavering strength, his dancing, and, of course, his nickname – the Russian.

John leaves behind his Moynihan family of brothers and sisters whom he loved very much. As well as nieces and nephews. He was also blessed with many cousins and lifelong friends whom he considered family.

He was looking forward to embracing his parents, grandparents Nancy and Ray Bogus, Frank and Vicki Pedi and his Aunt Barbara Harzmovitch and having a huge celebration when he got to Heaven.

As John’s family, we would like to say a special “Thank You” to his treatment team of incredible doctors and ALL the special nurses at the Burlington and Peabody locations of Burlington Lahey Hospital and the wonderful, special team of nurses, aides, and directors at the Sawtelle Hospice House in Reading, Ma.

Family and friends are cordially invited to visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading (Corner of Park St. and Rt. 28) on Friday, September 12th, 2025 from 4 to 7pm

A Graveside Service to Celebrate John will follow the next morning at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett, to be buried with his father.

Procession to begin at the Cota Funeral Home on Saturday, September 13th, 2025 at 9:15am. Graveside Service will begin at 10:00AM

For those who do not wish to go in procession, you may meet at the Cemetery Gate or Go directly to Wintergreen Ave at Woodlawn.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to:

Sawtelle Hospice House, 320 Haverhill St, Reading Ma. 01867 or online at Sawtelle Hospice House.

For information, directions and to leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotafuneral.com.

Address

335 Park Street
North Reading, MA
01864

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Our Story

Since 1932, Cota Family Funeral Home has serviced families representing many faiths. We have become familiar with the varied traditions in burying a loved one and have learned that times change and services do as well. We are here to assist you in making the passing of a loved one as stress free as possible by listening to your ideas and catering a service that fits not only your wants but also your budget. Below is just a list of some of the services we offer. Contact us at anytime to answer any of your questions. We know the pain of loosing a loved one first hand and know there is no simple way to say goodbye. Traditional services with visitation and burial: Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; use of facilities for viewing; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Adaptive services and burial, without visitation: Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Traditional services with cremation: Includes: Same as above two selections, except services end with cremation. Modest cremation: Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the crematory. Immediate burial: Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the cemetery. Memorial Cremation services: Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the crematory; memorial services in the funeral home or church after cremation without the deceased present. Cremains may be present at the memorial services. We are always open to tailor any of the above services to your specifications. We are also available to assist with insurance papers, veterans and social security forms and benefits.