John A. Ghiloni, of Medford, died Sunday in the company of his loving family. He was 82.
John was born in Somerville, the son of the late John and the late Leontina (Biagi) Ghiloni. John lived his early years in Au Sable Forks, NY. He served with the US Army Air Corps during World War II, participating in the occupation of Berlin and serving during the Berlin Air Lift. He later served 28 years with the National Guard. After settling back in Somerville, John attended Bentley College and then began a 30 years career for the City of Medford, working his way up from serving as a clerk in the Welfare Department to becoming the City Manager. John retired from his position as City Manager as the City’s Charter changed in 1988. Aside from his long career in local government, John was active in many social affairs, serving as Exalted Ruler of the Winchester Elks Lodge, and as an active member of St. Francis Parish Holy Name Society and Choir. Most of all John was a devoted to his large and loving family and to his many friends.
Survived by his beloved wife Theresa (Dini) Ghiloni, John also leaves his daughters: Mary Lou White and her husband Kevin, Claire Ghiloni and her partner Debra Kamen, Susan Gustafson and her husband Steve Puzak, Johnna Costa and her husband Stephen, Janine McGonagle and her husband John, Theresa Ann Welch and her husband Robert. He was a loving grandfather to Jonathan, Jaclyn, Keryn, Courtney, Alexandra, John, Jessica, Erika, David and Harry. John was predeceased by his siblings: Marion, Aldo, Josephine, Mary, Joseph and Clara. He also leaves many loving nieces and nephews.
His funeral will be from Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, Thursday at 10 AM followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 441 Fellsway West, Medford, at 11 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and celebrate John’s life. Visiting hours Wednesday 3-8. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in John’s name to Caritas Good Samaritan Hospice, 310 Allston Street, Brighton, MA 02135 or to St. Francis Development Fund, 441 Fellsway, Medford, MA 02155.