James J. Petrella, of Melrose, passed away on Friday in the company of his two loving daughters and his loving wife. He was 65. Raised in Medford, James was the son of the late Sebastiano “Yano” and Rita (Capobianco) Petrella. A 1975 graduate of Medford High School, James cherished his early years on Golden Ave., and built strong life-long friendships which were so important to him. He was proud of his family and their roots in Boston’s West End. After college, James embarked on a long career in truck sales. For the past 15 years he enjoyed great success with the General Truck Center (now Allegiance) in Methuen.
Once married, he and his beloved wife Kathy settled in Melrose where they raised their daughters. James was devoted to his family and always looked forward to spending time together, whether at home, on vacation in Martha’s Vineyard or even quietly enjoying the ocean view at Coughlin Park in Winthrop, watching the planes come and go. His friendships meant a great deal as well. He loved spending time with the guys, enjoying a cigar and a few laughs.
The beloved husband of Katherine S. (Santos) Petrella, James was a loving father to Olivia Florence Petrella and Catia Jaimes Petrella of Melrose. He was a devoted brother to Peter Petrella and his wife Barbara, John Petrella and his wife Daria, and Sara Riley and her husband Michael. The son-in-law of the late Philip and Florence Santos, James was a dear brother-in-law to Richard DiCostantino and his wife Sheila, Philip Santos and his wife Laura, Madeline Santos and the late Frank DiCostantino. James was a devoted uncle to Michael Price, Jr. and to many other nieces and nephews and also leaves behind many loving friends.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, from 5 – 8 PM on Thursday, August18th and are also kindly invited to a service of remembrance in the funeral home on Friday morning, August 19th at 10 AM. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.