Mr. Donato “Danny” DiNocco 90, of Melrose, beloved husband of Anna Maria (D’Errico) DiNocco, died, September 23rd, 2013 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in West Roxbury following a long illness.
Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Antonio and Vincenza (Mazzola) DiNocco. He was raised and educated in East Boston and attended East Boston High School. During his high school years, Donato was a trombone player in the Mt. Carmel Church Band. During his time in the band, he met the love of his life, Anna, whom he affectionately referred to as his “Jellybean”, and their love would blossom over their 67 years together.
An honorably discharged veteran, he served his country as a member of the United States Army during World War II, landing on Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion in Normandy as a member of the 29th infantry Division of the US Army. His years serving his country created a lasting foundation in Donato of courage, character and strength which is evident from his survival as a Prisoner of War. He loved his country and all that it stands for.
Mr. DiNocco had been employed for many years as a laborer at the Naval Shipyard in Charlestown until the time of his retirement. During retirement, Donato became the Care Taker at the Mt. Hood Golf Course of Melrose and was known for his attention to detail and precise manicured grounds.
A dedicated and loving husband, father and grandfather, he was a long time resident of the City of Melrose. He was a member of the V.F.W. of Melrose and the D.A.V. of Melrose. He was dedicated to his country and catholic faith. He enjoyed his many reunions with his fellow U.S. Army 29th Division members. His greatest pleasure came from spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren who all looked up to his commitment to family and faith. His sense of humor and loving personality will be deeply missed.
In addition to his loving wife of 67 Years, Donato is survived by his children, Donna Gibbs and her husband Bob of Peabody, Danny DiNocco and his wife Elise of Wakefield, Ann Molk and her husband Stu of Danvers, Dennis DiNocco and his wife Lisa of Ipswich and Robert DiNocco and his wife Lisa of New Hampshire, his 13 grandchildren, his two great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was also the father of the late Anthony DiNocco and brother of the late Romeo, Luigi, Sabitino, Erminio and Antonio DiNocco.
His funeral will be held from C.R. Lyons & Sons, Funeral Directors, 28 Elm St., Danvers Square, Friday at 8:15 A.M. followed by his funeral Mass in St. Mary of the Annunciation Church, Conant St., Danvers at 9 A.M. Relatives and friends invited. Burial in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne. Visiting hours Thursday from 5 to 7 P.M. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Donato’s memory to the Soldiers Home, 91 Crest Ave., Chelsea, Ma 02150.