FRANKLIN: Arthur J. Calarese

Arthur J. Calarese passed away peacefully at home at age 98 on January 29, 2026.

He is predeceased by his devoted wife of 72 years, Blanche E. (Sullivan) Calarese. He is also predeceased by his loving parents, Frank and Caroline Calarese, and his beloved siblings Al, Jessie, Francis, William, Caroline, Theresa, Cecelia, Dorothy and Sarah.

Born December 11, 1927, Arthur grew up in Hyde Park. He graduated from Hyde Park High in 1945 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served in China and the Pacific for three years. Following the Marines, Arthur was employed by Commonwealth Gas until his retirement in 1986.

Arthur enjoyed spending time with his family. He took pride in maintaining his yard, even winning a neighborhood award for his efforts. Arthur enjoyed traveling with his beloved wife, Blanche, to places like Aruba, Florida and Nashville. He enjoyed watching the Bruins and Western films and listening to country classics like Johnny Cash. Arthur was known for his sharp wit, endless drive, and spoiling his grandchildren and great grandchildren, always slipping them chocolate during their visits. He will be remembered for his larger than life personality, strong will, and how he loved his family.

He is survived by his children: Arthur Calarese and his wife, Sue of Bellingham, Frank Calarese of Port Charlotte, Florida, Jean DiRosario and her husband Michael of Franklin, and Linda Morton and her husband John of Plainville. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Michelle Graham, Daniel Calarese, Krystal Ruiz, Ryan Calarese, Ashley DiRosario, Michael DiRosario, Jennifer Francis, Kimberly Morton, Lauren Morton, and John Morton, as well as his great-grandchildren: Connor Graham, Tyler Graham, Jocelyn Graham, Edward Ruiz, Selena Ruiz, Kinsey DiRosario, Kayleigh DiRosario, Dylan Calarese, Zoey Calarese, Wyatt Francis, Arlo Francis, Lucy Francis and Mia Morton. He is survived by his brother John and his wife Elaine of Franklin and his sister Mary of Bridgewater.

Private services with interment at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, will be held at a later date.

The Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. is honored to assist the Calarese family.