Orlando A. DiFranza, of Melrose, died October 6, 2008 at his home. He was 84 years old. Born on July 9, 1924 in East Boston, MA to the late Joseph & Filomena (Perillo) DiFranza, he was raised in East Boston and a graduate of Boston Latin High School and Northeastern University where he earned a degree in Engineering. Mr. DiFranza worked as an engineer for the General Electric Company of Lynn for 35 years and was a Melrose resident for over 50 years. He loved his family, grandchildren, enjoyed woodworking, reading, ballroom dancing, cruises, the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He was the beloved husband of the late Claire B. (Hedges) DiFranza with whom he shared over 40 years of marriage. He was the loving father of Joseph DiFranza & his wife Sharon of Princeton, David DiFranza of Melrose, Diana Sullivan & her husband Bill of Stoneham and Robin Parker & her husband James of Lunenburg. Caring brother of Mary DeSisto & her late husband Anthony of TN, Steve DiFranza & his wife Happy of N. Reading, Michael DiFranza & his wife Rita of SC and Elena Amante & her late husband Frank of Maynard. Cherished grandfather of Lanny, Michael, Levi, Casandra, Skye, Ashley, Jack, Kaylyn, Alan and Owen. Loving great grandfather of Lucas. Brother in law of Rita Devine & Theresa Veiga, both of Lynn and Virginia Hedges of Dennis. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces & grandnephews. A memorial mass will be held at the Church of the Incarnation, 425 Upham St., Melrose on Saturday Oct. 18th at 12:00PM. Relatives & friends invited. Immediately following the mass, the family has arranged for a gathering in the lower level of the church. All are respectfully invited to attend. Burial will be Private. Arrangements by The Gately Funeral Home of Melrose. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Orlando name to standup2cancer.org, 1801 W. Olympic Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91199-1224. Makes checks payable to "SU2C". For directions or to sign Orlando's guest book, please visit www.gatelyfh.com Visitation: None None