Arthur Christopher "Chris" DeCesare

Arthur Christopher “Chris” DeCesare – Methuen, MA

Arthur Christopher “Chris” DeCesare, 85, of Methuen, passed away on April 8, 2026, after a short illness. He was born on October 12, 1940, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, and a love for family, friends, and community.

Chris was the beloved husband of the late Domenica DeCesare. He is survived by his children, Linda Morrissey, Chris DeCesare, Paula Marini and her husband, Paul Marini and his companion Maureen Lumb. He was a proud grandfather of five grandchildren and a great-grandfather of four. His family was the center of his life, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, share stories, and celebrate their accomplishments.

A lifelong resident of the Merrimack Valley, Chris graduated from Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, where he developed the strong values and work ethic that guided him throughout his life. He carried those qualities into his career and into every role he held, earning the respect of those who knew him.

Chris worked as manager of the Emblem and Badge Co. trophy store in the mid-1970s, and he later became the owner of Chris’ Ace of Clubs, which he operated from 1975 until 1997. Through his business, he became widely known in the community and formed lasting friendships with customers, athletes, and fellow supporters of local sports. He took great pride in sponsoring numerous teams in a variety of sports, especially the men’s Social League softball team that advanced to the national tournament in 1982. His support meant more than sponsorship, as he truly believed in the value of teamwork, competition, and community spirit.

Sports were a lifelong passion for Chris. He loved athletics from an early age and played football and baseball in high school. He later became an accomplished fast-pitch softball player in the competitive Social League in Lawrence, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and excitement of the game. As the years went by, he continued to enjoy sports in many forms, and golf became one of his favorite pastimes. Whether on the field, on the course, or cheering others on, he found joy in the spirit of competition and the friendships that came with it.

Those who knew Chris will remember him as a man of character, warmth, and determination. He was proud of his roots, proud of his family, and proud of the life he built through perseverance and dedication. He had a straightforward manner, a generous heart, and a genuine interest in the people around him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Calling hours are Monday, April 13, 2026 from 3-7 PM at Dewhirst Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 10 AM at St. Theresa Church of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, 22 Plymouth Street, Methuen, MA 01844. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Lawrence.

Please visit www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com for directions, or to sign the online guest book.

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