Ethan Justin Mistica, 20, of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, entered God’s heavenly kingdom on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the St. Luke’s Hospital, surrounded by the deep love of his family after a protracted illness.
Born in Oakland, California, Ethan was the cherished son of Harold J. Mistica (Valerie) and Rosetta W. Walker (Sando). His life journey took him across the country and abroad before settling in Mattapoisett, MA. As a 2024 graduate of Old Rochester Regional High School, Ethan excelled in long jump, track, and soccer demonstrating both talent and determination in everything he pursued.
In June 2025, Ethan proudly graduated the United States Marine Corps boot camp and quickly rose to the rank of Lance Corporal within 6 months. He was training to become a C-130 Aircrew Member and approached every task with discipline, humility, and deep commitment. Ethan embodied the Marine Corps’ values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, and he dreamed of one day becoming a pilot.
Before joining the military, Ethan also worked as a lifeguard at the Oak Ridge Country Club and the YMCA in Wareham, MA, where his calm presence and sense of responsibility helped ensure the safety of others.
Ethan will be remembered for his bright personality and the passions that fuel his life. He was an avid fan of Manchester United Football Club, he enjoyed building advanced Lego models, Gundam Models, target shooting, weightlifting in the gym, immersing himself in video games and Japanese anime—interests he shared with the people closest to him. He also shared a unique close bond with his sister, and served as a caring big brother to the younger ones, and also cherished making TikTok videos with his cousins. His warm, lingering hugs- held just long enough to make you feel safe, will be deeply missed.
Free-spirited and compassionate, Ethan had a magnetic presence that naturally brought people together. He was known for his strength, thoughtfulness, courage, and his ability to make even the simplest moments feel special. Those closest to him spoke of his charm, his perceptiveness, and a resilience that defined him throughout his life. Ethan welcomed everyone with kindness, made new friends effortlessly, and had a rare gift for helping others feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
Despite the challenges he faced, Ethan remained hopeful, courageous, and full of quiet strength—inspiring to all who knew him. His infectious smile and gentle heart will be forever cherished.
Ethan is survived by his loving parents; his siblings, Kayla J. Mistica and Ajai D. James; his girlfriend Gisele Madsoopanah; his stepsiblings, Christina, Emma, Isaac, and Seth; his maternal grandmother, Ellen Dunn Walker; his paternal grandparents, Emelie Federizo and Ephriam Mistica; and many treasured family members, friends, and fellow Marines.
Visiting hours in Faith Christian Center, 95 Sagamore Road, Seekonk, MA 02771, Friday, May 8, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 pm. with a service to be conducted in the church Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Interment with military honors in Arlington National Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements committed to the care of Aubertine-Lopes Funeral Home, 129 Allen St., New Bedford. For online guestbook, please visit www.aubertine-lopes.com.
