John William Rossini, 84, lifelong resident of Holliston, died peacefully following a brief illness at Metrowest Medical Center in Framingham on Tuesday, March 29, 2011. He was born March 25, 1927 to the late Joseph and Genevieve (Trotta) Rossini and graduated from Holliston High School.

John “Sonny” served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. On March 25, 1951 he was united in marriage to Barbara A. (Fiske) Rossini of Ashland. Sonny and his three brothers, Walter, Beno and Alex owned and operated “Walter’s Dairy” at East Holliston corner from 1940 until 1984. The establishment was well known for its family atmosphere, excellent food and homemade ice cream. Following the closing of the business, he worked with his son Joseph at J.R. Construction of Holliston until his retirement in 2004.

In addition to his loving wife of 60 years, he leaves six children: Jack Rossini of Medway, Mike Rossini and wife Linda of Hollison, Joe Rossini and wife Jacqui of Holliston, Jim Rossini and wife Cheri of Medway, Lynn Rossini of Medway, and Ken Rossini of Holliston. He leaves 12 grandchildren: Keryn, Peter, Amy, Brian, Timothy, Scott, Julia, Jillian, Nicole, Tommy, Nicholas and Anthony, and two great-grandchildren, Emma and Christopher. He is also survived by his brother Walter Rossini of Holliston and many loving nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 3, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston. A funeral Mass will be held at Saint Mary Parish in Holliston on Monday at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Holliston Fire Department or Saint Mary Parish of Holliston.