Anthony “Tony” Belmonte

Anthony “Tony” Belmonte, age 98, of Melrose, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 20, 1927, in East Boston, Massachusetts, to the late Frank and Christina Belmonte, Tony attended East Boston High School before joining the Merchant Marines at seventeen. He later served in the United States Navy as a mechanical engineer during World War II, receiving an honorable discharge. In 1949 he married the love of his life, Pauline “Paula” Ricci, at Saint Stephen’s Church in Boston’s North End. Their marriage spanned seventy-seven years, rooted in deep love, family, and lasting friendship.

After his military service, Tony founded Belmonte Refrigeration. His company earned the trust of many well-known restaurants along Route 1, including The Hilltop, Augustine’s, The Ship, and the New England Oyster House. Colleagues and customers alike valued his reliability, dedication, and the strong relationships he built through his work. He was also an active member of Kiwanis International and the VFW in Melrose for many years.

Tony embraced life with optimism and energy. He cherished winters in Florida with his family, loved dancing with Paula, and enjoyed traveling the world with her, especially to Las Vegas. Above all, he found his greatest joy in time spent with family and friends. He passed down to them a strong work ethic, a positive outlook, and the habit of always putting his best foot forward. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pauline Belmonte; his daughter Christine Lopez of Danvers, widow of the late Gary Lopez; his daughter Pauline Hartigan and her husband Arthur Hartigan of Melrose; and his son Anthony Belmonte and his wife Barbara Belmonte of Melrose. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.