Published in the April 6, 2018 edition
MELROSE — Alfonse J. Alfano Jr., 74, resident of Melrose and Windham, N.H., died on Sunday, April 1, 2018 at High Pointe Hospice House in Haverhill.
Alfonse was born on February 21, 1944 in East Boston, the youngest of six children of the late Alfonse J. and Rose (Romano) Alfano Sr. He grew up in East Boston. At the young age of 15, Alfonse lost his father, and at that point he chose to become the man of the house, helping his mother as much as he could. Alfonse graduated from Boston English High School in 1961.
Alfonse joined the Air National Guard, serving stateside during the Vietnam War. In June of 1972, Alfonse married his beloved Joanna M. Campanella, and they went on to share 43 wonderful years of marriage. Alfonse worked in the banking industry, working in a number of different areas before he retired in 2013.
Most important to Alfonse was his family. He always taught his children that the most important thing in life is family. He was heavily involved in his children’s lives and could be found at any one of their events supporting them and cheering them on. His grandchildren were truly his pride and joy.
Travel with his family was a big deal to Alfonse. He took his family on many different trips so they could experience not just life in the New England area, but numerous other areas around the country. Another favorite was the road trip. He relished his time in the car taking a drive to most anywhere, with anyone who wanted to go along for the ride. He recently was able to make a trip to Italy with his brother to see where their parents grew up, and to meet relatives that were there. The smile he had on his face from that trip spoke loudly as to just how much he enjoyed himself there.
Of all the places they went, East Boston was always home to Alfonse. He was proud of his time spent coming of age there. One would often find him reading numerous books about the history of East Boston. He was a big fan of the New England Patriots and never missed a Red Sox game on the television.
Alfonse was a quiet, humble, and generous man. Even as he became ill recently, he never complained and was more concerned with the well being of others. His kindness and warmth will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His lessons and wisdom, and Italian heritage, which he was so proud of, will live on through his children and grandchildren.
Alfonse is the beloved husband of the late Joanna M. Alfano. Devoted father of Anthony J. Alfano of Peabody, Christine J. LaBrecque and her husband Keith of Salem, N.H., and Nicholas J. Alfano and his wife Sara of Newburyport. Loving brother of Armando Alfano and his wife Jeanette of Biddeford Pool, Maine, Anna Colarusso and her husband Augy of Danvers, JoAnn Maylor and her husband Bill of Danvers, the late Domenic Alfano and his surviving wife June of Florida, and the late Louie Alfano. Proud grandfather of Sophie, Lucy, Lucas, and Lexi. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Alfonse’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, April 4, and again on Thursday before leaving in procession to Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield for his funeral Mass celebrated.
Gifts in Alfonse’s memory may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.
For online tribute or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
