DelMonaco, Giovanni of Norwood, MA, formerly of Dedham, passed away peacefully on Thursday January 16, 2025, at the age of 87 surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Sulmona, province of L’Aquila, region of Abruzzo, Italy on December 18,1937 to the late Vincenzo and Anna DelMonaco. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Graziella DelMonaco, with whom he shared a beautiful life and home. He was a beloved father to Vinny DelMonaco and his wife Marybeth of Norwood, John DelMonaco and his late wife Laura of Natick, and Mary Lussier and her husband Ronald of Norwood. He was a cherished grandfather (Nonno) to Alyssa, Anthony, John, Brooke, Sarah, Steven, and Cristina and great grandfather to Gracie, Mia, and Morgan. He was also a brother to Elvira Ventresca and her husband Philip of Philadelphia and Rosetta Susi of Italy.
Giovanni made a life in the United States, moving to the North End of Boston at the age of 18 years old. Soon after arriving in America, he began work as a butcher, a trade which would prove useful throughout his life, making his own sausages and other cured meats at home. Later, he became a co-owner and proprietor of the Dedham Line Liquors in West Roxbury, where he gained so many friends among customers and community members. Again, Giovanni’s work was matched by another one of his pastimes, fermenting jugs of delicious homemade wine, the recipes of which remain a family favorite during the holidays. Visits to Giovanni and Graziella’s home were always accompanied by overwhelming generosity usually taking the form of food: a bottle of homemade wine, a seat at the table for homemade spaghetti and sauce, or an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables from Giovanni’s garden. He was a loyal family man, with a quick wit, and a comforting presence always. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A funeral service will be held at George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 456 High St. Dedham, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 11:00am. Visiting hours will be held Wednesday morning starting at 9:00 AM prior to the service. Entombment to follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Roslindale, MA.