In Memory of

Joseph

M.

Donlon

Sr.

Obituary for Joseph M. Donlon Sr.

DONLON, Joseph M. Sr. Of Winchester, passed away on February 1, 2020. Beloved husband of the late Joanne M. (Simeone) Donlon. Loving father of Mary Graffeo and her husband Michael of Humarock, Anthony and his wife Louise of Winchester, Joseph, Jr. and his wife Susan of Winchester, Kimberly Donlon of San Diego, CA & Sean Donlon and his wife Shauneen of Winchester. Cherished grandfather "Big Joe" of 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Joanne O'Brien and her husband Jack of Woburn, Paul and his wife Nancy of Vermont, Robert and his wife Kathy of Orlando, Fl and the late Beth Duffy and her husband Al of Longmeadow. Brother-in-law of Rosemary Maida and her husband Larry of Winchester. A Funeral will be held from the Lane Funeral Home, 760 Main St. (Rte. 38), WINCHESTER on Thursday, February 6th at 9am. Followed by a Mass of Christian burial at St. Mary's Church at 10am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting Hours will be held at the Funeral Home on Wednesday from 3-7pm. Interment at Wildwood Cemetery Winchester.
Lifelong resident of Winchester and his favorite place on earth.
Joe often recalled nostalgic stories about the good ol days growing up in Winchester. He enjoyed reminiscing and pointing out landmarks of historical events. They were interesting and important lessons learned from childhood, both on and off the football field, always ending with the value of loyalty, friendship and family.
He never failed to say, “this is the best town”, the people here are really special and the fields are BEAUTIFUL! He especially admired athletic fields where he could watch his children, and grandchildren and converse with friends. It was a meaningful place where dreams and memories were made to last a lifetime.
Joe met the love of his life (Joanne Simeone) in Randalls and they were soon married. They enjoyed raising their family and traveling with friends throughout their marriage of 59 years.
Joe was a proud member of the 1953 Class of WHS and captain of his football team. His fondest memories were the ones shared about beating the odds and overcoming adversity. Never give up! He shared his philosophy throughout his life. As a former Marine he admired and respected the men and women of the armed forces. He was also disciplined and took pride in working out whether it was the gym or in the basement with sons and grandsons.
He shared his contagious smile and positive attitude with everyone he met and he especially respected the hard working people and business owners in Winchester. He always shared a kind expression of appreciation for their personalized customer service. He also adored his neighbors and the heated political conversations over homemade meals and spirits. Some of Joe’s favorite neighbors were the dogs who looked forward to a special treat every day.
Joe was loved by all and he will be missed until we meet again. We are comforted knowing he is resting in eternal peace with his believed wife Joanne and they will both be forever in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Disabled & Limbless Veterans, Inc., 122 Hill St, Norwood, MA 02062 or dlvets.org Late Veteran US Marine Corps. Korean conflict.