48° and Clear
Image
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John S. Dantona of Franklin, who left us on May 29th at his home after a long illness. John’s departure is deeply felt by all who knew him, and his memory will forever remain a source of comfort and love.
Born in Hyde Park on April 12th, 1961 to the late Joseph Dantona and Frances (Cirignano) Dantona. Beloved husband of Joyce (D’Alessandro) Dantona whom he has been married for 42 years. Devoted father of John Dantona Jr. Loving brother of Joseph Dantona and his wife Eleanor of East Taunton, sister Junie (Dantona) Hinckley and her husband Michael and Frances (Dantona) Cody and her husband Brian of Plymouth. Pre-deceased by his loving nephew John Edward Licciardi, along with his beloved dog, Cody who was always by his side. John was the cherished Son in law of Nicholas D’Alessandro and the late Dorothy (Citrone) D’Alessandro who loved him deeply and welcomed him as their own, Brother-in-law of Janet McGonagle and her husband Joe of Las Vegas and Karen Reeves and her husband Russ of Lakeville Nicholas D’Alessando of Dartmouth
He is also survived by one loving aunt, a devoted godchild Meghan McGobagle many cousins, and many nieces and nephews who adored him. He leaves behind countless childhood friends and devoted coworkers who visited with him throughout his illness, offering comfort, companionship, and unwavering support.
John dedicated his entire career to Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital for over 49 years, where he served faithfully as the Cafeteria Manager. He was more than a colleague he was a friend to all who crossed his path Anyone who met him remembers John with affection. He had a rare gift for making people feel seen — a thoughtful listener who made you feel like you were the only person in the room. Kind, welcoming, deeply considerate, and always smiling, John carried a twinkle in his eye that made others feel instantly at ease.
A proud and passionate Boston sports fan, John’s greatest lifelong hobby was cars. His love for them began when he was just a toddler, sitting on his father’s lap while driving and pointing out every car that matched his dad’s model. Over the years he collected thousands of Hot Wheels, pedaled his own little car up and down the driveway, and eventually cared for many of his real cars with the same devotion. Every vehicle he owned was kept in pristine, showroom condition he could always be found outside washing, polishing, and detailing. His prized possession was his Dodge Hellcat, a car he waited years to finally call his own.
Above all else was family, John’s greatest joy in life was his son, John. He poured his heart into fatherhood taking him to sporting events, teaching him everything he knew about cars, and sharing their mutual love of wrestling. He did everything for his son, and the bond they shared was the center of his world. John’s love extended beyond his son to his wife and his siblings, whom he cherished deeply. He loved them and would do anything for them, always ready to offer support, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. Family was the foundation of his life, and he carried that devotion with him in every relationship, leaving behind a legacy of love and steadfast commitment.
John was also an avid and highly accomplished bowler. Over the years he earned numerous awards and recognitions, a testament to both his skill and his love for the game. His highest-score award still hangs proudly in the bowling alley, a lasting reminder of the talent, dedication,
He always had a kind word for everyone, no matter who they were or what kind of day they were having. John will always be remembered for his kindness, his warmth, his passions, and the love he gave so freely to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
John had a persevering spirit, courageous soul and a caring and generous heart that touched countless lives He was a loving son, father, husband brother and friend which will be missed more than words could say.
One of the many letters John received from coworkers over the years came from a colleague upon her retirement. Her words captured exactly the kind of presence John had in people’s lives:
“When you remember me, it means that you have carried something of who I am with you. You have left some mark of who I am on who you are. It means that you can summon me back to your mind even though countless years and miles may stand between us. It means that if we meet again, you will know me. It means that even after I die, you can still see my face and hear my voice and speak to me in your heart. For as long as you remember me, I am never really lost.”
Her message was meant for John, but it now speaks just as powerfully about him — about the way he touched people, the way he stayed with them, and the way he will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Though the road may take him now, his love for cars will remain — in the memories of friends, the stories told, and the engines that still run in their hearts. May their next journey be one of peace, and may their favorite cars rest in quiet honor
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Tuesday June 9th, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Franklin at 10AM. To view the Mass stmarysfranklin.org
Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, West Roxbury.
Calling hours are Monday June 8th, from 4-7PM.
Gifts in memory of John Dantona may be made to support glioblastoma research at the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute. Checks may be made out to Mass General Brigham, and mailed to: Mass General Brigham Development, 399 Revolution Drive, Suite 1330, Somerville, MA 02145 with ‘In Memory of John Dantona” in the memo. Gifts can be made online at: https://giving.massgeneral.org/donate/ under the tribute section, please include John Dantona.
