June 17, 2025

The University mourns the loss of Sammy “Mike Lister” Dearborn, of Charlestown, who passed away unexpectedly on June 13. He was 57.

The son of Paul Lister and the late Patricia (Field) Kology, he was a member of the Facilities Operations team and a kind and quiet fixture in the plumbing shop since joining URI in March 2018.

Sammy/Mike, or “Uncle Buck” as he was known to most, was an avid sports fan—especially the Yankees and the 49ers—and wasn’t afraid to tell you about it. A quiet, hard worker who did his job well and willingly took on any task asked of him, he enjoyed his job and his team.

He was an AC/DC fan, enjoyed camping and fireworks, and spending time with friends and family.

He leaves behind his siblings: Kimberly Turner-Rose and her husband Bill, Eva Lister-Theriault, and Joseph Kology; his aunt, Lisa Field; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins—all of whom recount him as the best brother, the greatest friend, and the most fun uncle and cousin ever.

He is predeceased by Braden Kology, his stepfather; Bruce Turner—a special father figure in his life; and his brother, Daniel Lister.

Visitation will be held on Thursday June 19, from 5-7 p.m. at Avery Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St. Wakefield.

To view his full obituary, or to leave condolences, please visit Avery Storti Funeral Home.