CHRISTOFONO, Stephen Alfred of Hyde Park, April 26, 2017. Born on August 16, 1921 in Maynard, MA, he was the son of John Christofono and Annie DiMarsie Christofono. He was the loving husband of the late Celia (Wilga) Christofono for 41years. Steve is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Richard Dagrosa of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Grandson Chuck Raffoni of North Chelmsford, MA, Granddaughter Melissa Raffoni and Great Grandchildren Graham and Tatum Rivers of Rye Beach, NH.
Steve was a retired Marine Sargent who first joined the Army on October 9, 1942 and re-enlisted into the Marines on October 10, 1947. He retired from the Marines January 11, 1965, having served in WWII (Army), Korea and Vietnam. Army Private Christofono participated in the landing at Utah Beach. Steve fought in the Battle of the Bulge as a member of 817th Tank Killer Battalion which was a part of the Third Army under General George Patton. He saw significant combat in Germany during WWII and was wounded in the wrist; earning a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star with Combat V for his heroism during the Battle of the Bulge. Steve also participated in the Liberation of France.
Sergeant Christofono retired from the Marines to take care of his sick mother. His last tour was at 1st Navel District HQ, Boston MA. Upon retirement Steve became involved in politics. He participated in the election campaign of Mayor Kevin White. Steve held numerous positions in Boston area including Housing Inspector, Assistant Manager Little City Hall, West Roxbury, MA, Constable and Deputy Sheriff.
Adored by his wife, Steve was known for his resilience, perseverance, authenticity, strong work ethic, integrity, loyalty to serve his family, community and the U.S. Marine Corps. It was undoubtedly these traits that allowed him to live with strength of character and grace until the age of 95.
Our family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff at the German Center Edelweiss Village West Roxbury for the wonderful care and kind support given to him during his residence there.
Mass of Christian Burial at St. Theresa Church, West Roxbury, Monday, May 1st at 11:30 am. Burial with military honors at the Garden of Honor, The Gardens at Gethsemane, 670 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA.
Always the proud Marine, we know in our hearts that he will be assigned to guard Heaven’s Gate. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Marine Corp Foundation PO Box 1775 Quantico, VA 22134-2775 or at their website www.mca-marines.org. Semper Fi!