Accomplished welder who enjoyed gardening
SAUGUS — John J. Gargano passed away at his home in Saugus on January 2, 2023. He was 103 years of age. He was born in Chelsea on July 10, 1919 to the late Gabriele and Lucia (Capone) Gargano. He was raised in Chelsea and graduated from St. Rose Grammar School and Chelsea High School.
After high school he entered WWII and served his country with pride in the US Army as a welder in England and across the European Theatre. After his discharge he worked for Avery & Saul Company in Cambridge as a welder and draftsman, and ended his career as a deign draftsman in the Aero Nautic Jet Engine Division at General Electric in Lynn.
John lived in his Chelsea neighborhood for most of his life helping families and friends fixing all their equipment. After his move to his son’s home in Saugus 20 years ago, he continued to work and fix anything brought to him by his neighborhood friends in the workshop his son created for him.
He also loved to continue gardening in the back yard. Above all he loved the times spent with his family!
John is the husband of 68 years to the late Frances E. (Grifo) Gargano. Loving father of Vincent Gargano of Saugus and Adeline “Adele Dean” (Gargano) Dean of Melrose. Cherished grandfather of David P. Dean Jr. and his wife Annie Walker Dean. Loving brother of the late Theresa Olivero and Clara Mongiello. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Thursday, January 5, 2023 from 9 – 11 a.m., followed by a funeral service at the Chapel at Woodlawn Cemetery, 302 Elm St. Everett at 12 noon. After the service, the service will continue at graveside at Woodlawn Cemetery for final prayers and military honors. Relatives and friends were respectfully invited to attend. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com 
