Obituary of Arthur W. Enos

Arthur William Enos, Proud Marine and Community Leader

Arthur William Enos—a proud United States Marine to the end, retired owner of Enos Ambulance, and devoted community servant—passed away peacefully, on his own terms, just as he lived, on the morning of Monday, June 16, 2025. He was 84 years old.

Art was born in Brockton and grew up in Cambridge. As a youth and then a young adult, he worked alongside his father, Joe Enos, who owned a funeral livery and ambulance service. Art had to grow up faster than most his age. At 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served for two years, achieving the rank of Lance Corporal. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Rifle Marksman Badge.

But more important than the medals was how the Marines helped shape Art into the man he became. The Corps’ core values—Honor, Courage, and Commitment—became his compass. “Always Faithful,” or Semper Fi, was more than a motto; it was a lifelong bond that connected him with his fellow Marines. Art exemplified that spirit—pushing through challenges, enduring hardships, and never giving up. That resilience stayed with him throughout his life. For Art, Semper Fi was not just a phrase; it was a code he lived by.

Art remained loyal to his fellow veterans and especially his fellow Marines throughout his life. Art was the Toys for Tots Coordinator for 35 years and 8 months for Middlesex and Essex counties. Through his selfless dedication to the program, he touched the lives of millions of children by ensuring they had toys on Christmas morning. Through his dedication and networking Art was able to secure free warehouse space which saved millions of dollars that was able to be used to purchase toys. He also had many donors and volunteers who loved the Toys for Tots program as much as he did, so they continued to give and volunteer due to the inspiration Art provided.  Art built a Toys for Tots program that was recognized nationwide. When Marines left and moved across the country, they would call Art to come and provide guidance and assistance with their program.  He held various leadership positions in the Marine Corps League at both the local and state levels, including serving as Commandant of the Burlington Chapter. He was also President of the Allied Veterans Association.

Art was instrumental in designing, fundraising for, and coordinating the installation of the flagpoles at Burlington Common, each representing a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. He also spearheaded the effort to install the towering flagpole and enormous American flag at the entrance of Burlington High School. Art was a fixture at local ceremonies and memorials, often serving as an organizer and speaker. In 2012 Art was named Marine of the Year for Department of Massachusetts Marine Corps.  In his later years, Art led the roll call of veterans who had passed away at Burlington’s annual Memorial Day ceremonies. He also ensured that every Marine buried in Burlington cemeteries had a Marine Corps flag placed at their gravesite on Memorial Day. For many, Art Enos was the face of Burlington’s veteran community.

But above all, Art was a devoted family man.

He first noticed his future wife, Ellen Marie Lynch, while walking his sister to dance class. He caught sight of a stunning dance teacher through the window. Though his early attempts to win her heart were rebuffed, Art was not one to give up easily. He instead worked on earning the approval of her mother. Once he succeeded, Ellen welcomed his advances. They married in September of 1962 and moved to Burlington in 1968. The two were inseparable—a true team for 62 years.

Art supported Ellen in building her own dance studio, Ellen’s School of Dance in Billerica. He served as her business manager, property manager, custodian, and even the best dance floor polisher around. He also started Enos Theatrical Services to handle all back stage production for the annual recital. Art founded and served as the President of Dance Students Art Association. An organization created to give Scholarships to aspiring dancers looking to purse the dancing arts. He was extremely proud of the assistance support and inspiration this was able to provide so many young people. In return, Ellen supported Art when he launched Enos Ambulance Service, which he successfully operated for 25 years. At its peak, the business had four ambulances and a limousine. Art even held ambulance contracts for Fenway Park and the Boston Garden. His motto was: “When you care enough to call the very best.” His vehicles were spotless, and his drivers were professionally trained and immaculately presented.

The couple enjoyed time at their vacation homes in Jefferson, Maine, and Orlando, Florida. Naturally, Art got involved in both communities, serving as President of the Clary Lake Association and the Lake Sheen Association.

As a father, Art was a role model—selfless, hardworking, and unwaveringly supportive. When his daughter Laurie took over the dance studio, he never stopped helping, continuing to work alongside her up until the very week he drove himself to the hospital. He was the biggest fan of his grandchildren, attending sporting events, school programs, and any activity that mattered to them. His homes in Maine and Florida were always open, a haven for his family and their friends.

In Maine, Art’s house was more like a mini-resort—complete with boats, four-wheelers, snowmobiles, and every toy a kid could dream of. He had high expectations of his grandchildren, but he also gave them the tools, wisdom, and encouragement to succeed. That was Art—always putting others before himself.

The Enos family, the Marine Corps League, local veterans’ associations, and the entire town of Burlington have lost a truly remarkable man. As you drive past Burlington High School or the Town Common and see the flags waving proudly in the breeze, think of Art. And remember his belief in service over self—a philosophy that, if more of us followed, would make the world a better place.

Art, you were a soldier, a leader, a husband, a father, and a friend. For your service, your love of country, and your devotion to family and community—you have earned one final, resounding “Oorah!”

Art was the beloved husband of 60 years to the late Ellen Marie (Lynch) Enos.  He was the loving father of Laurie Pandolfo of Burlington and Steven Enos & his partner Susan Marchand of Woburn.  He was the proud grandfather of Neil “Charlie” Pandolfo & his wife Taryn, Aubrey Enos, and Addison Enos and their mother Tricia all of Burlington.  He was the great grandfather of Emma & Owen Pandolfo.  He was the brother of Mary Lou O’Reilly of FL and late Francis “Sonny” Enos.  Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., Burlington on Friday, June 20 from 4-7 p.m.  Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Margaret Church in St. Veronica Parish, www.stveronicama.org, 111 Winn St., Burlington at 11:30 a.m.  Services will conclude with military honors at Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Burlington. 

Memorials in Art’s name may be made to Toys for Tots, www.devens-ma.toysfortots.org, 53 Quebec St, Devens, MA 01434. 

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