Michael J. Rossi, RN, 65, of Cumberland, RI, passed away suddenly on August 20,

2020. Michael was born on November 24, 1954 to Anthony and Bette (McCarthy) Rossi

in Pawtucket, RI.

A Veteran of the United States Coast Guard, Michael served on "America's Tall Ship",

the USCGC Eagle. Captivated by the sea, he worked as a crewman and galley cook

aboard deep-sea fishing vessels for many years before finally coming ashore.

In the 1980's when the outbreak of HIV/AIDS swept across the nation, Michael

volunteered for the Buddy Program, which offered one-on-one support to people living

with the virus. This experience inspired Michael to embark on a career in healthcare .

He graduated from the Nursing Program at the Community College of RI in 1993, and

practiced nursing for 27 years.

In 2015, Michael met his fiancé, the late Olivia Chacón who was the love of his life and

a fellow nurse. They became known as "The Dream Team" on their unit at Mount St.

Rita Health Centre in Cumberland. Mike and Olivia traveled to many countries and

destinations throughout their time together.

Michael's other joy was his son, Nolan. They were kindred spirits in their love of a good

debate and a shared dark sense of humor. Michael managed to drag Nolan to Fenway

every year to see his favorite team, the Boston Red Sox.

Michael had a passion for history, nature, golfing, conversations, and coffee. Seldom

would Mike be seen without his ever-present cup of joe. He was known for his quick wit

and left-leaning politics. He was also a music lover and avid reader.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his much-loved brothers,

David, Paul, and Anthony Rossi. He is survived by his son, Nolan McHale-Rossi, his

sister, Lynn (Rossi) McCarthy and her husband Tim, his sister, Joyce Rossi, of North

Carolina, his sister-in-law, Lori (McWilliams) Rossi, of South Carolina, his former wife,

Phyllis McHale, and his life-long friend, Tim Taylor. He is survived by several nieces,

nephews, great nieces and nephews, as well as an enormous circle of friends who will

miss him dearly.

Due to current restrictions, the family will hold a private memorial. However, please visit

our Facebook page, "The Lives and Times of Michael and Tony Rossi", to leave

memories, condolences, and comments.