Francesco "Ches" DiRusso, respected Boston fashion designer died October 2 at his home. He was 50. 
Born in East Cambridge, MA., Ches began his career as a fashion designer in Boston in 1974. He worked his way up to designer at Star Costumes and Miller Furs before branching out on his own. Designing under the "Ches Couture" label, Ches developed a reputation as a women’s and menswear designer with impeccable taste and attention to detail.

In 1998, Ches presented a 25 year retrospective gallery showing of his work at his alma mater, The School of Fashion Design on Newbury Street. In 2000, Ches  was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Boston Fashion Week Vision Council.

He was a strong supporter of the local fashion industry and contributed generously of his time and talents to many charitable organizations.

He died due to complications from Aids after a courageous 14 year battle. He will be dearly missed by friends and family.

In lieu of a funeral, his life and work will be celebrated at a memorial service to be held on November 1, 2002 at 7:00PM at the studio of Tracy Aiguier, 368 Congress Street, Boston, MA. Ches asked that instead of flowers, donations be made in his memory to the Aids Action Committee of Boston.