Alfred “Freddy” Martello, 101, of Melrose, Massachusetts, died on September 25, 2026, in Melrose.

Born on March 1, 1925, in East Boston, Massachusetts to Angelina LaPusata and Vincenzo Martello. Mr. Martello lived a long life shaped by service, work, family, and the everyday pursuits he valued most. He served in the United States Army from 1944 to 1946 in basic infantry and worked as a physical fitness instructor during his military service.

Following his time in the Army, Alfred pursued several lines of work and was known as an entrepreneur throughout his working years. He was the owner of House of Pockets and also managed a band. His life reflected steady effort and a strong commitment to the work he undertook.

Alfred was Catholic by faith. He enjoyed gardening, sunbathing, playing the harmonica, tailoring, and dancing. He also took special pleasure in eating his wife’s cooking. These interests remained part of the life he built over many years.

Family held an important place in his life. He was preceded in death by his wife, Claire Martello, and by his sisters, Ida Italiano and Rose Martello. He is survived by his son, Vincent Martello, and Vincent’s wife, Patty Martello; his daughter, Linda Chaplin, and Linda’s husband, Richard Chaplin; his grandchildren, Shawn Martello, Brian Chaplin, Amberly Chaplin, Nicholas Martello, and Karla Meoli and her husband, Christopher Meoli; his great-grandchildren, Vivian, Dominic, and Vincent; and also by nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family extends sincere thanks to the Tufts Hospice team for the care and support provided over the past year.

Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 4:00PM-7:00PM. Procession from the Gately Funeral Home on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 10:00AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at the Church of the Incarnation, 429 Upham St., Melrose at 11:00AM. Interment with military honors to follow at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the MA Commission for the Blind. 40 Broad St., Boston, MA 02109.