Neil Francis Cronin (1940-2023)
Neil Francis Cronin, 83 years, of Dedham, MA, died peacefully at home surrounded by his children on November 17, 2023. Neil was the devoted husband of 53 years to the late Patricia (Salmon) and loving father of Mary Beth Cronin of Dedham, Sheila Vazquez and her husband Adam of Westwood, Neil Cronin Jr. and his wife Maryellen of Dedham, Tricia Cronin of Dedham, Karen Tobin and her husband John of West Roxbury, Brian Cronin and his wife Janine of Norwood. Proud Grampy to Adam, Elizabeth, Dylan, Joseph, Shane, James, Braden, Kevin, Mary Kate, Marcus, Melanie, and Natalie.
He was born in Boston in 1940 to the late Francis and Elizabeth Cronin and grew up in Dorchester with his six brothers. Neil was preceded in death by brothers Leo, Kenneth (and his late wife, Joan) and Stephen. He is survived by his sister-in-law Patricia Cronin, brother Gerard and his wife Ann, brother Paul and his wife Dianne, brother Philip and his wife Donna. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and many friends.
Neil attended St. Gregory’s Parochial School and Boston Trade, and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving 5 years through out South East Asia. After serving his country, he started a 45-year career at Boston College, where he also earned a bachelor’s degree in English. He also enjoyed teaching part time at the Peterson School preparing future electricians for the journeyman’s license exam. He was also electrical inspector for the Town of Dedham.
Neil & Patricia raised their family in Dedham, and were active parishioners in St. Susanna’s Church and the Dedham community. Neil enjoyed volunteering his time at bingo, and served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years. Neil also coached hockey and served as president of the board of directors for Dedham Youth Hockey. He was well known around town proudly attending sports games, concerts, and performances for his children and later, for his grandchildren. He loved trips made to Ireland and South Carolina, enjoying time with his family.
Visiting hours are Friday, November 24, 2023, 3-6pm at St Susanna’s Church in Dedham, Ma.
The Funeral Mass is Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 9am, also at St Susanna’s Church in Dedham, Ma.
Donations in Neil’s honor can be made to My Brother’s Keeper CLICK HERE .