Loved being on the water
PINE ISLAND, Florida — Donald R. Stamegna Jr., beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2024 at his Florida home on Pine Island surrounded by his loving family. He was 73 years old.
He was born on September 1, 1950 to the late Donald and Barbara (Allen) Stamegna in Boston. He was raised in Melrose and graduated from Melrose High School in 1969. He later moved to North Reading where he raised his family with his former wife, Betsy Stamegna. Don has been a resident of Rockport for over 20 years with his wife, Wendy Lawton. Together they enjoyed spending their winters in his favorite place, Pine Island, Florida, for many years.
Born with a passion for cars and craftsmanship, Don pursued his interests with unwavering dedication throughout his life. As a skilled carpenter, he left his mark on countless homes with his meticulous workmanship. His entrepreneurial spirit and expertise led him to establish several successful businesses in the automotive industry, which included Oak Grove Auto Body and Don’s Towing, which he operated for 30 years.
Additionally, Don founded a handicapped services company, demonstrating his commitment to making a difference in his community. For many years he worked with the Special Olympics of Massachusetts. He took great pride and enjoyment in volunteering and bringing happiness to all the athletes especially during the award ceremonies.
Don was an avid boater and he could navigate any ocean waters. He loved being on the water; it always brought him great joy most especially when he was able to share this joy with his family and friends. In addition to being on the water, he was an experienced scuba diver and enjoyed volunteering his time as a diving instructor at the YMCA.
Don will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love for his family and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His legacy of hard work and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Wendy. He was a loving father to Angie D’Ambrosio and her husband Al; Darlene Cote and her husband Carl; as well as Donald Stamegna III and his wife Kimberly. He was also a proud grandfather to Lillianna, Miabella, Kaila, Ty, Katrin, Timothy, Ashley, Austin and Kaiden. He was a cherished brother to Susan, Richard, Nancy, Francis, Joseph, Betsy, Peter and Paul.
A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect St., Gloucester on Saturday, June 1 at 11:30 a.m. Afterwards, a celebration of Don’s life will be held at his son’s North Reading residence.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Special Olympics Massachusetts, 512 Forest St., Marlborough, MA 01752 or March of Dimes, 112 Turnpike Rd. #300, Westboro, MA 01581. Don will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.
To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit our website at neptunesociety.com/obituaries/11778547.
