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

Tony was born on September 20, 1927, in East Boston, Massachusetts, the son of the late Frank and Christina Belmonte. He attended East Boston High School and, at just 17 years old, joined the Merchant Marines. He later proudly served in the United States Navy as a mechanical engineer during World War II before receiving an honorable discharge.

On May 8, 1949, Tony married the love of his life, Pauline "Paula" Ricci, at Saint Stephen’s Church in Boston’s North End. Together they shared a remarkable seventy-seven years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and friendship.

Following his military service, Tony founded Belmonte Refrigeration, a business that quickly earned the trust of many prominent restaurants along Route 1, including The Hilltop, Augustine’s, The Ship, and the New England Oyster House. Known for his reliability and dedication, Tony took great pride in his work and the relationships he built throughout his career.

He was an active member of Kiwanis International and the VFW in Melrose for many years. Those who knew Tony will remember him as a hardworking and determined man who embraced life fully. He cherished spending winters in Florida with his family, loved dancing with his beloved wife Paula, and enjoyed traveling the world together. Their favorite destination, of course, was Las Vegas.

Above all else, Tony’s greatest joy was the time he spent with his family and friends. Through his example, he passed down his strong work ethic, optimism, and commitment to always putting his best foot forward each day. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to live on through the family he loved so dearly.

Tony 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 and 22 great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

A respectful farewell will take place with visiting hours being held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster Street, Melrose. His life will be honored with a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:30 AM at The Incarnation Church, 429 Upham Street, Melrose. Following the services, interment will be held at Wyoming Cemetery, 205 Sylvan Street, Melrose.