Obituary of John J Malatesta

John J. Malatesta, a longtime Burlington resident, a proud U.S. Army Veteran, dedicated husband, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather and cherished friend. John passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024, at the age of 94. His passing marks the end of a life well-lived and full of love, service, and laughter.

Born and raised in Malden, Massachusetts, John was the sixth of eight children born to Tobio and Mary Malatesta. His early years were shaped by the hardships of the Great Depression, and he left school to help support his family, embodying the resilience and work ethic that would define his entire life. In February of 1952, John enlisted in the Army, proudly serving his country during the Korean War. As a Sergeant in the 25th Infantry Division, he operated a howitzer gun and participated in several major campaigns. John was awarded the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars and the United Nations Service Medal with two overseas bars, yet he rarely spoke of his experiences, preferring to keep the memories close to his heart. His sense of duty and pride in his service never wavered, and his fellow soldiers in the 25th Infantry Regiment were a source of lifelong pride.

After returning home, John completed his GED and later earned his bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University. He spent most of his career in the shoe industry, working with B.F. Goodrich and later as a buyer for J. Baker Inc., a leading shoe and clothing manufacturer. His career was marked by dedication and growth, climbing the corporate ladder with a deep appreciation for his coworkers and the products he loved.

In 1957, at a picnic, John met his future wife, Mary DerBoghosian, a woman who would become his closest companion, his partner, and his best friend. Their love story blossomed quickly, and they were married in November of that same year. Together, they created a beautiful life, first living in Wakefield, then North Carolina, before settling in Burlington in 1972. For 65 years, John and Mary were inseparable—never spending a night apart. Their relationship was built on mutual respect, humor, and a love that only grew deeper with time.

John was an active and life member of the Wakefield Lodge of the Elks, where he gave his time and energy to charitable activities, social events, the bowling league, and running weekly Bingo. Mary, ever supportive, was right there beside him, always ready to lend a hand. Their charitable work extended well into their 80s as they helped serve meals to the senior community.  Their most cherished memories were spending time with their dearest friends Mike and Jean DiSanto. They were also part of a group of 12 couples they affectionately called the “Couples Club,” hosting monthly events and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Beyond his many accomplishments, John was best known for his warm smile, infectious laughter, and his ability to make everyone around him feel valued. He was a loving father to his children and adored by his four grandchildren, who were the light of his life. John was also lucky enough to be able to spend time with his three beautiful great grandchildren, John,  Owen and Audrey. John could always be counted on for silly songs, playful antics, and a deep sense of love and humor that made every moment special. His home was a sanctuary—a place where he and Mary shared their love for each other and their family. John was a strong, yet kind, father, running a tight ship while always seeing the best in others and teaching his children to do the same.

John leaves behind a legacy of service to his country, his community, and most of all, his family. His presence will be missed, but his memory will live on in the stories, the laughter, and the love he so freely gave. While his family is deeply saddened by his passing, they find peace in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved Mary. Together again, their love is eternal.

John was the beloved husband of the late Mary (DerBoghosian) Malatesta who passed in 2022.  He was the proud and loving father and father-in-law of John Malatesta & his wife Alisa of Billerica and Susan Dooley & her husband Timothy of Tewksbury.  He is survived by his brother Arthur “Bobby” Malatesta of Malden, his sister Lorraine LaSpina of Malden and brother to the late Charles Malatesta, Rose Fabiano, Philip Malatesta, Lena Leach, and William Malatesta.  He was the special “Grampa” to Arianna Malatesta, Nicholas Malatesta, Ryan Dooley & his wife Jessica, and Derek Dooley & his fiancé Jacqueline McQuade.  He was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Tuesday, December 10 from 5-7pm. and Wednesday December 11 from 9 to 9:30am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Margaret Church in St. Veronica Parish, www.stveronicama.org, 111 Winn Street, Burlington at 10am.   Services will conclude with a burial at Pine Haven Cemetery with military honors.  

Memorials in John’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, 501 St. Jude Place,Memphis, TX 38105.

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net