Framingham-Milford motorcycle run on Sunday to honor Millis woman

Framingham-Milford motorcycle run on Sunday to honor Millis woman

The MetroWest Daily News

By Danielle Ameden

09.03.13

A motorcycle run from Framingham to Milford next Sunday will honor a former Millis woman – and the big celebration afterward caters to families and barbecue lovers.

Family members say they organized "Mary’s Ride" as a tribute to the late Mary E. DeRosa and to raise money for a cause dear to her heart: veterans.

The family-friendly event is open to the public, and proceeds go to Fisher House Boston, an organization that helps military families seeking medical treatment.

"I just figured this could be a way to celebrate and give back," said Alice DeRosa of Medway, Mary’s daughter-in-law. "I think it would make her proud."

Mary DeRosa, who raised her family in Millis and later lived in West Roxbury, died of a stroke last November at age 58.

"One of her strongest beliefs that she had a passion for was veterans," Alice DeRosa said. "Her mother and father met while in the military. Her brother served. Her husband served."

Fisher House Boston calls itself a "home away from home" for military families while a member receives in-house treatment from the VA Boston Healthcare System.

"As soon as I found it I thought this would be perfect - Mary would love this," Alice DeRosa said.

Next Sunday’s event kicks off from Pepperoncini’s Pizzeria & Grill at 486 Concord St. in Framingham, with "kick stands up" at 11 a.m. The ride goes to the pizzeria’s Milford location at 201 East Main St., with a barbecue to follow.

Pepperoncini’s is set to provide burgers, hot dogs and sausages.

The celebration includes music, raffles, cotton candy and a bouncy house for the kids.

Tickets for the ride are $25 per motorcycle, and $15 for passengers. Admission for the barbecue only is $15.

Registration starts at 10 a.m.

For more information or to pre-register, email derosa319@gmail.com.

Danielle Ameden can be reached at 508-626-4416 or dameden@wickedlocal.com.