Michael J. Celata, 87, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025 in North Reading, MA.

Born on August 1, 1938 in Boston, Massachusetts to the late Anthony and Marie (Bonavera) Celata, Michael kept his family and faith at the center of his life, and he loved Boston sports—especially cheering on his beloved Boston College Eagles.

In 1969, Michael married the love of his life, Barbara (Cosentino). They lived in New Hampshire for a short time before moving to 5 Gloria Lane in North Reading to raise their family. Their home was a place of constant welcome, where birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, and visits with old friends were celebrated with laughter and love. They took great joy in opening their doors to others, filling their home with good food, generous hospitality, and the kind of moments that will be cherished for generations.

He was deeply involved in his children's youth sports, from getting his son, Michael, to early morning hockey practices to cheering proudly from the sidelines at his daughter Melissa's softball games. He continued to support Michael's athletic dreams into adulthood, proudly backing his pursuit of Division I soccer and regularly making the four-plus-hour drive to Albany, NY, just to watch him play.

Above all else, Michael treasured his role as Papa to his four grandchildren, Hannah, Matthew, Ava, and Giana. He delighted in every milestone his grandchildren achieved and took great joy in spending time with them, whether playing in the pool or hosting fun afternoons in the backyard. He loved spoiling them at Christmastime, treating them to sweet surprises from Winfrey's, and never missed a chance to be first in the pickup line at The Little School. He loved texting his college grandchildren to celebrate the latest wins of their favorite professional and college teams. These grandchildren stand as a lasting part of Michael's legacy, a reminder of the love and dedication he shared with his family.

Michael is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara; his daughter, Melissa Celata Cacciapaglia of Franklin, MA; his son, Michael Celata, and his wife, Jill, of North Reading, MA; and his brother, Donald Celata, and his wife, Hoa, of Alexandria, VA. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A funeral service to honor Michael's life will be held at Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28), North Reading, at the Reading line, on Friday, Dec. 5, at 1 p.m. Family and friends are warmly welcomed to visit with the family at the funeral home on Friday from 11 a.m. until the start of the service at 1 p.m. In Lieu of flowers please make donations in Michael's name to the Gift Processing at National Kidney Foundation HQ, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016. Interment will be private.