Arthur Colin Falla, 96, of Centre Street, West Roxbury, formerly of Attleboro, died peacefully after a brief illness. Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on October 17, 1919, to the late Colin and Florence (Humphries) Falla. He was the husband of the late Eleanor Marie (Downes) Falla, and the late Mildred Olee (Brooks) Falla. He was the brother of the late Catherine Brown and George Falla. He is survived by his two step-sons, Arthur Taylor and his wife Susan Colby, of Middletown, Connecticut, and William Taylor and his wife Lori Taylor, of Jamaica Plain, MA, and three grandchildren Julia, Graham, and Claire. He was a graduate of Arlington High School and later, Boston College.
Immediately following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Mr. Falla enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was stationed in the Pacific Theater, and fought in the Battle(s) of Guadalcanal, and Cape Gloucester, New Britain, where his actions resulted in him receiving the Silver Star and Purple Heart. His citation reads:
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a squad leader serving with the First Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on January 25, 1944. Cut off from friendly troops on a strip of beach, Sergeant Falla fearlessly exposed himself to a direct line of hostile fire and signaled by semaphore to the main body for orders. When a half-track landed on the beach, Sergeant Falla boldly advanced under fire with his squad, silencing two enemy machine guns and, despite serious wounds received during the action, led his men to safety. His daring initiative, unwavering determination and heroic devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
Following his military service, Mr. Falla worked in sales. He made his career with Engelhard Industries, where he retired as Sales Manager.
Mr. Falla was a member of Bristol Lodge A.F. & A.M., North Attleborough. Never one to pass on a chance for adventure, he enjoyed parasailing while vacationing in Florida. This led him to do a tandem parachute jump at age 80 (much to the chagrin of Mrs. Falla), making front page news. Mr. Falla, known to the few of his generation as Sonny, best known as Art, will be remembered as the perfect gentleman, with a wonderful sense of humor, laughing most at one of his own follies.
Family and friends are cordially invited to attend visitation on Monday, May 23, 2016, from 7:00-9:00pm, at Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre Street, West Roxbury. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sophia Snow Place, 1215 Centre Street, West Roxbury, MA 02132.