Alphonse R. “Al” Frezza died suddenly at the Massachusetts General Hospital on Tuesday morning. He was 87. Born in Boston and raised in Medford, he was the son of the late Claudino D. and Leonobia (DiTata) Frezza. After graduating from High School, Al served in the Army at the end of World War II and was stationed in the Pacific. Upon his return from the service, Al embarked upon a distinguished career in journalism. He reported for the Medford Daily Mercury eventually becoming the Managing Editor. He was part of a generation of local newsmen, who through their reporting helped build and solidify their communities. He was always in the stands following the Medford Mustangs and reporting on the success of generations of student athletes. Because of Al’s reporting, many young athletes gained notoriety and had opportunities for a college education. He was long known to be a fair and balanced reporter of local politics as well. He was deeply committed to his community, family and friends. As the landscape of local journalism changed, Al moved on to become Chief of Staff of Massachusetts House Speaker, George Keverian. Before his retirement, Al served with the Environmental Protection Agency. His commitment to Medford never went unnoticed by the many citizens and elected officials who sought his advice. He was a devout member of St. Joseph Parish and served on the Pastor’s Councill. He was also honored for his commitment to Medford athletics by his induction into the Mustangs Hall of Fame.
Al is predeceased by his dear brother Gene R. Frezza and sister Pamela A. Frezza. Al leaves his many cousins, including Thelma DeLucia, Thomas Zero and is also survived by many loving and dear friends.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to visit at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, Saturday morning, December 12th from 8:30 thru 10:30 followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, 118 High Street, Medford, at 11 AM. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery.