1940 - 2026
Born and raised in Milford, Bernard was the son of the late Bernard J. Tessicini and Ida (Iadarola) Tessicini and a graduate of Milford High School, Class of 1958. His connection to Milford remained strong throughout his life, and it was a community he deeply loved.
Bernard built a dedicated 28-year career with Stop & Shop, ultimately serving as Assistant Grocery Manager of the Milford store. Although a job-related injury brought that chapter to a close, his desire to serve never wavered. He went on to work at St. Cecelia’s Church in Ashland, the Bell Tower Room at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, and later the Milford Town Library, where he retired in 2014. Those who worked alongside him remember his reliability, gentle humor, and steady presence.
A lifelong communicant of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Bernard’s faith and family were the cornerstones of his life. He was a passionate New England sports fan and rarely missed a game.
One of Bernard’s greatest joys was ballroom dancing with his wife, Joan. The two could often be found gliding across the floor at Chicken Pete’s, where their shared love of music and dance created some of their happiest memories together. Later, they spent many evenings bowling in local leagues at Ficco Bowling in Franklin, enjoying time with friends. He also loved a good poker game, a competitive match of bocce, and simply being in the company of those he cared about.
Growing up, Bernard was a proud member of the “Water Street Gang,” and he carried that sense of friendship and community throughout his life. In later years, he could often be found sharing laughs and stories at coffee gatherings with “the boys” at Dunkin’ Donuts and Honey Dew in Milford.
Above all else, Bernard was devoted to his family. He cherished every recital, every game, every milestone his grandchildren reached. Sunday dinners, holidays, and any excuse to gather meant everything to him. His greatest joy was being surrounded by those he loved, listening, laughing, and celebrating life together.
Bernard is survived by his daughters, Kelli LaBastie and her husband Daniel LaBastie Jr. of Mendon, and Leslie Giles and her husband Michael Giles of East Sandwich. He leaves behind four cherished grandchildren — Danielle LaBastie of Watertown; Austin LaBastie and his wife Michelle of South Boston; and Brian and Cameron Giles of East Sandwich — each of whom brought him tremendous pride.
He is also survived by his brother, John Tessicini and his wife Alice of Milford; his sister-in-law, Eileen Agostini of Plymouth; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved “grand pups,” Minnie Giles and Odie LaBastie.
He was predeceased by his sister, Marilyn (Tessicini) Brewster.
Bernard’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 25th, from the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, 44 Congress Street, Milford, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 7 East Main Street, Milford. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held prior to the funeral from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The American Lung Association. https://action.lung.org/site/Donation2?df_id=31272&mfc_pref=T&31272.donation=form1
