Published in the October 16, 2015 edition
MELROSE — Donald R. Stamegna, 90, passed away at Massachusetts General Hospital on Tuesday, October 13.
Donald was born in Melrose on June 13, 1925, to the late Angelo and Mary (McCafferty) Stamegna. He was raised in Wakefield and Melrose, graduated from Melrose High School and Babson College.
Donald joined the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served his country with pride during World War II as a U.S. Navy pilot with a rank of 2nd lieutenant. After his discharge from the Navy he joined the U.S. Marines later that month and served in the reserves as a 1st Lieutenant until 1952.
Mr. Stamegna was a longtime resident of Melrose and a resident of Arlington Street since 1952.
He was the business owner, purchasing agent and bookkeeper of Hyde Birdfeeder Company of Waltham for over 50 years, retiring in 2000.
He loved boating, fishing and catching lobsters from his summer home on Buzzards Bay. Donald liked the outdoors, camping and working on his home, right up to last week at the age of 90.
Mr. Stamegna enjoyed going on cruises with his wife Barbara and was a collector of cars, trains and other collectibles.
He was the beloved husband of 67 years to Barbara (Allen) Stamegna. He was the devoted father of Susan Martin of CA, Donald R. Stamegna Jr. of Rockport, Richard A. Stamegna of Beverly, Nancy C. Gargano of GA, Francis J. Stamegna and Joseph P. Stamegna, both of Melrose, Betsy A. Spiro of CT, Peter A. Stamegna of Medford and Paul A. Stamegna of Melrose. He was the caring brother of Claire Shomody of FL. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Thursday, October 15, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. followed by A Mass of Christian Burial at Incarnation Church, 425 Upham St., Melrose on Friday, October 16, at 10 a.m.
Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend. Burial with military honors at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com.
