Published in the November 18, 2016 edition
MELROSE — John G. Desmond, 77, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away at Spaulding Rehabilitation Center in Cambridge on Monday, Nov. 14.
John was born in Somerville on Dec. 29, 1938, and was one of three children of the late John and Catherine (Murray) Desmond.
Raised in Stoneham, he graduated from Stoneham High School and joined the IBEW Local number 103 at age 18. John was employed as a union electrician for over 40 years and until the end was still a proud member of the union. John enjoyed his work on job sites throughout New England ranging from large buildings in Rhode Island to tunnels in Boston, and many locations in between. John was a quiet, hard working man who loved his family.
John served in the Army National Guard for four years, and was a faithful parishioner of Most Blessed Sacrament Church for many years. He stayed busy at home with jobs around the house and in the yard. In his free time, he enjoyed reading or relaxing while watching Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune with Carol. He also enjoyed learning about local history, historical photos and was interested in vintage cars from his childhood, especially his favorite, Fords.
John was the beloved husband of Carol F. (Thompson) Desmond, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Karen D. Williams and her husband Neil of Wakefield; and Robert M. Desmond and his partner Roger Bencivenga of Stoneham. He was the dear brother of Jean Moccia and her husband John of Epping, N.H. and the late Rose DelGenio. He was the cherished grandfather of Michael, Sarah and Emily Williams.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of John’s life at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Thursday, Nov. 17, before leaving in procession to Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield for his Funeral Mass. Interment took place in Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield. For online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
