MELROSE — John J. Giannotte Jr., 66, of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Sept. 11, at EPOCH of Melrose.

John was born on Aug. 13, 1948 in Framingham, one of three children of the late John J. and Evelyn (McNamara) Giannotte. He was raised in Lynn and Saugus and graduated from Saugus High School.

John worked for several years as a rug layer for Rapucci & Son in Lynn.

As a young boy growing up in Lynn, John’s lifelong appreciation and love for working on boats was born. He was a longtime member of the Volunteer Yacht Club in Lynn where he served as the Commodore for several years. He shared many happy memories and made many lasting friendships with the other members. John spent countless hours working on his boat Start Me Up which he built by hand at the Club. A lifelong member, John held nearly every position at one time or another and loved the relationships and camaraderie he built over the years.

John’s other needs in life were simple. He loved watching football, most importantly, the Patriots and enjoyed playing with Eileen’s grandchildren when they visited.

John was the devoted husband of the late Carole (Cyr) Giannotte. He was the dear friend of Eileen Cronan of Melrose. He was the loving brother of Carol Banks and her husband Richard of Hollis, N.H. and Thomas “Tony” Giannotte of New Hampshire. He was the uncle of Jennifer Banks. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Relatives and friends gathered in honor of John at Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose where his funeral service was celebrated on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 10 a.m.

Gifts in his memory may be made to the EPOCH of Melrose Recreation Fund, 15 Green St., Melrose MA 02176.

For online tribute or to share a memory visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.