Obituaries 05-14-2020

Floyd Porter

Established and owned F.P. Enterprises/Porter Products

Floyd H. Porter, 82, of Chelsea, formerly of Revere and Winthrop, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, May 3.

Floyd grew up in Winthrop and graduated from Winthrop High School in 1954.  He attended Northeastern University as an accounting major and later earned a Certificate in Radio/TV Repair from DeVry Technical Institute Institute in Chicago, IL, passing his 1st Class FCC License-Radar Endorsed.  

He was a Korean War and Cold War Era Veteran, having served from 1954 – 1962 as a SP4 in XIII U.S. Army Corps., Yankee Division, Chemical Corps. at Camp Drum, Utica NY, during which his service time was extended due to the Berlin Wall Crisis.  

Following his Army service, he worked as a civilian contractor at Eglin AFB in Florida developing and working on F105 aircraft Doppler radar systems; during that period, he was involved in the rescue of F105 pilot that crashed into the Everglades and subsequent recovery of the onboard Doppler equipment. 

After his military and military contractor service, Floyd returned to Massachusetts, where he worked for companies including: Xerox Corp., Anelex Corp, Savin Business Machines, Whittle Communications, Fiore Bus Company, and several other technical companies. He established and owned F.P. Enterprises/Porter Products, all while raising his family.  

Once retired, Floyd enjoyed trips to Poland Springs, ME, Cape Cod and leaf peeping around the New England area with his lovely wife by his side.  

Floyd was a loyal listener and periodic caller to talk radio shows and would occasionally write letters to the editor. Floyd was never one to shy away from a discussion or debate and took pride in being well read and well informed.

Building upon his knowledge in the restaurant/food industry, he was a frequent visitor to the Chelsea Market Basket where he made the rounds and cultivated some very good relationships with managers and workers over the years, was interviewed by local TV news for live-shots outside the store before snow storms, and met and spoke with a person he had tremendous respect for, President and CEO Arthur T. DeMoulas.  

Floyd was immensely proud of his children and their accomplishments, their families, and everyone’s individual successes.

In his later years, he enjoyed his role as Grampie to Kayla and Emily, having many fun and cherished moments including their favorite, “The Grampie Dance.”

He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Deborah (Meredith) Porter of Chelsea; two children, daughter Mandy (Porter) Piscitelli and her husband, Frank J. Piscitelli, III Esq. of Millbury and son, Nicholas G. Porter and his partner, Annette Gonzalez of Seattle, WA; two granddaughters, Kayla and Emily Piscitelli of Millbury, who he adored; a sister, Dorothy Langer of New York, NY; his mother-in-law, Shirley (Norton) Meredith of Melrose; two sisters-in-law, Susan Treasure of Wales, UK and Christine Meredith and her husband, Denny of Melrose; his nephews and nieces, Jonathan and Eric Meredith of Melrose and David and Laura Treasure of Wales, UK, and many cousins and friends.  

He was born to the late Harold A. Potcherkoff and Goldie (Fineman) Potcherkoff on May 23, 1937 in Boston.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his father-in-law, Kenneth B. Meredith of Melrose and two brothers-in-law, Thomas G. Coccovillo of Revere and Michael Treasure of Wales, UK. 

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and government restrictions on gatherings, immediate services will be private with family and close friends, with a memorial service at a later time when restrictions are relaxed.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice, in Floyd’s name. Services are being provided by the Gately Funeral Home, Melrose .

Josephine Seekins

April 5, 1945 – May 6, 2020

At 9:50 a.m. on May 6, Josephine M. “Josie” Seekins entered the Kingdom of Heaven after losing her battle with COVID-19 while being cared for by Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. She was 75 years old.

Born on April 1, 1945 in Boston and raised for a short time in East Boston, Josephine was a longtime resident of Chelsea, before moving to Winthrop in recent years. Chelsea was always where she felt at home.

Josephine suffered from Dementia for the past few years and resided at Winthrop Pace Assisted Living for the past year and a half.

Josephine is survived by her beloved and cherished daughter, Tracey Seekins and loving son in law, Rick Silva of Revere, her very special and bonded loved son, Eddie Seekins of Revere and her beloved and adored granddaughter, Casey Oles, of Chelsea. Josephine was the much loved sister of the late Shirley Greene, Dorothy LaFratta of Revere and Patricia Martini of Stoughton, Rita Pittman of Roslindale, and her loving and caring brothers, the late Robert Pittman, the late Gerard Pittman and the late James Pittman and many beloved nephews and nieces and cousins. She also leaves her special and adored cousin Dotty Cimino, who enjoyed spending one day per week together, having lunch for the last few years.

Josephine loved all the many friends she made throughout her life. She was very active. She walked everywhere she would go. Often times, she would take her granddaughter, Casey for slush, ice cream or wherever she wanted to go — always together, when Casey was little. She never said No to Casey.

Josephine enjoyed dinners or most anything cooked by her daughter, Tracey. She loved Christmas Eves and spending the night with her daughter and son in law, Thanksgivings, Easters and Birthdays, together with her family.

Josephine retired from the Chelsea School Department where she was a very caring and helpful teacher’s aide. Josephine was also a former homemaker, school bus monitor and has always worked to help and care for children and the elderly.

Josephine was well known wherever she lived. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, loved listening to music, dancing, sitting in the sun, TV and movies, and walking everywhere she went. She would rather walk, instead of taking a bus or riding in a car.

Josephine loved animals, especially her daughter’s cat, Smokey and her granddaughter’s dog, Fenway. She occasionally made donations to the ASPCA and local animal shelters whenever she could.

Josephine was always willing to lend a hand, do a chore or an errand for anyone.

She was a caring, loving, hardworking and dedicated Mother, Nana, Sister, Aunt, Cousin and Friend. She will always be remembered as such a loving, caring, kind hearted women, with a good sense of humor. She loved to smile or laugh with all who knew her.

Josephine will be terribly missed and loved forever by her entire family, friends and especially her children, Tracey and Eddie and granddaughter, Casey.

Due to the pandemic, funeral services will be private.  A Memorial Mass and celebration of Josephine’s life will be held and announced at future date.  Arrangements were given to the care and direction of the Anthony Memorial – Welsh Funeral Home, Chelsea.  We encourage family and friends who wish, to offer condolences at this time by means of the online guest book or they may send a personalized sympathy card.

In lieu of flowers, should friends desire, contributions can be made in Josephine Seekins’ name to the Mass General Hospital COVID – 19 Emergency Response Fund or the ASPCA. 

Mildred Baggs

Will be Greatly Missed by All Who Love Her

Mildred B. (Carnell) Baggs passed away at her home in Chelsea on Thursday evening, May 7.   She was 89 years old.

 Born in Conception Bay, Newfoundland, Canada, the daughter of the late Stephen S. and Gertrude L. (Sellars) Carnell, Mildred attended school in Canada and graduated high school there.   She came to the United States when she was 18 years old and received her US Citizenship in 1960. Mildred lived in Everett and Revere prior to moving to Chelsea where she has resided for almost 60 years.   

Mildred was a homemaker for most of her life, tending to her home and to her two sons.   She worked for 20 years for different companies, such as, American Optical, Armitron, and Hysil Manufacturing Company.   Mildred retired in 1991 after 20 years of service, ending with her employment as a bow maker at Hysil.   

Mildred was a 50-year member of the Mt. Bellingham U.M. Church in Chelsea and a late member of the Glendale U.M. Church in Everett.   She was very active in the Women’s Society of each Church.   Mildred later joined the First Congregational Church in Chelsea.   She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

She was the wife of the late John M. Baggs; beloved mother of John R. Baggs of Malden and Robert A. Baggs and his wife, Inta of Saugus.   Mildred was predeceased by two brothers, Gerald Carnell, John “Jack” Carnell and five sisters, Florence Learning, Lorraine Crocker, Rita Crowley, Edith Coish and Marion Peach.  She is also lovingly survived by five grandchildren, Robert Jr., John, Dawn, Shaun and Caress, four great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.   

Due to the current restrictions placed upon family and friends because of COVID-19, services for Mildred will be private with burial in Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Carafa Family Funeral Home in Chelsea.

Joseph Stutto Sr.

May 9, 1952 – May 7, 2020

Joseph Stutto Sr., 68, lifelong resident of Chelsea, passed away on Thursday, May 7 at the Massachusetts General Hospital after a brief non-covid related illness. 

Born and raised in Chelsea. he was the only child and son of the late Lawrence J. and Estelle R. (Richards) Stutto. 

He attended local schools and graduated from Chelsea High School.  He enlisted in the US Army, served during the Vietnam Era, received a purple heart and was honorably discharged from the service. 

Joseph worked at various jobs to support his family, working as a construction laborer and truck driver.  He most enjoyed the 25 years of hiring himself out as a DJ known simply as “Joe S.”

He married Norita (Melanson) and raised three sons and a daughter in Chelsea.  He gave over thirty years to Chelsea youth sports, coaching with the Chelsea Little League, POP Warner Football and Chelsea Youth Basketball League.  He loved his time working with and mentoring young men and women of all ages.  He was a proud life member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).  

 He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Norita M. Stutto of Chelsea.

He was the devoted father of Thomas Melanson of Ipswich, Joseph C. Stutto and his wife, Jenn of Lynnfield, Marc Stutto and Victoria Stutto, both of Chelsea, the proud grandfather of Thomas Melanson, Jr., Daniel McCarthy, Brandie Melanson and Jackson Stutto.  He is also survived by countless friends and extended family members. 

A private family farewell will be held, to be followed by a private graveside inurnment in Woodlawn Cemetery next week.  A celebration of his life will be announced for a later date when family and friends can attend. We encourage family and friends who wish, to offer condolences at this time by means of the online guest book or to send a personalized sympathy card. Arrangements are by Anthony Memorial – Welsh Funeral Home.

Catalina Santiago Vega

April 30, 1937 – May 5, 2020

Catalina Santiago Vega, 83, born in Patillas, Puerto Rico, April 30, 1937 died on May 5, 2020.

She parted from our lives leaving us with many memories. 

The daughter of the late Evaristo Vega and Victoria Soto, she had 10 siblings and was mother to Francisco Santiago Jr., David Santiago, Richard Santiago, William Santiago, Miriam “Milly” Santiago and the twins, Darlene (Santiago) Hancock and Arlene (Santiago) Tessitore. She was the loving grandmother of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Catalina was best known as everyone’s Abuela, the head of the family and main provider. Her commitment as a wife was driven by her desire to provide the best life for her children. Abuela always said and did everything with great intentions. Abuela had many characteristics such as integrity, loyalty, devotion, love and was very empowered.

She was the rock to our family, always made it a point to be with family, and made it a point to be there for one another.  Abuela had a passion to teach. She taught us to reach for our goals with self-determination while empathizing with others.

Her life lesson was, that with faith and self-belief you can conquer life. Abuela’s favorite advice was “echa pa’lante” meaning “keep moving forward.” 

She would not want us to grieve over her passing, but to remember all of the fond memories she created.  Let us carry her in our hearts and never forget her.  “We love you Abuela.”

A private family farewell and committal service will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery.  We encourage family and friends who wish, to offer condolences at this time by means of the online guest book or to send a personalized sympathy card.  

Arrangements are by Anthony Memorial – Welsh Funeral Home.

José Agustín Iraheta Martínez Sr.

August 28, 1955 – May 6, 2020

José Agustín Iraheta Martínez, 64 years old, was born in San Vicente, El Salvador on August 28th, 1955. The son of Cleotilde and Dorotea Iraheta. In 1973 he met his beloved Aracely, and they were married by the church on June 30, 1989.

He obtained his Bachelor and Masters degrees in business administration from the Technological University. He belonged to the Saint Rose of Lima Parish where he led groups and was a Eucharist Minister. Jose entered into eternal rest with God on Wednesday May 6th, 2020. 

Jose loved and fought for his family to the end. Jose was: a loving husband (he lived for his wife), an exemplary father and a loving grandfather. Above of all, he was a gentleman and a great man. 

 In his professional life he had a long and varied work life. His character was defined by his work and the love he had for his family and friends. He served as a guide for many, always reaching out to help others. In his absence his memory and legacy will live on in all the people who knew him. 

Jose took each day as a gift from God, which he shared with everyone who knew him. Now is the time to return our gift to the eternal peace of our Lord. 

The Iraheta family sincerely wishes to thank the Mass General Hospital intensive care medical team for their loving assistance in his last days. 

He is survived to cherish his memory: his wife, Aracely Iraheta; his children: Yesica and Danny Santos, Karla Iraheta de Carmona and Roberto Carmona and Jose Iraheta Jr. and Denise Ortega de Iraheta; two grandchildren; six sisters; numerous nephews and nieces, extended family and a great circle of friends

A private family farewell was held on May 12 followed by a procession and funeral blessing at the doors outside of his beloved Saint Rose of Lima Church, concluding with graveside prayers and interment in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.  Family and friends will bid farewell in the safety of their cars at the church and at the cemetery before the burial.   

The pandemic caused by COVID-19 has affected all aspects of our lives including how we grieve. One of these restrictions is not being able to receive flower bouquets. In lieu of flowers please continue to celebrate Jose’s life in prayer and keep yourself safe.

Arrangements are by Anthony Memorial – Welsh Funeral Home.

Dorothy Marotta

Of Revere

Dorothy Marotta of Revere passed away on May 7, 2020 at the age 79.  Born in Malden on February 18, 1941 to the late Pasquale and Theresa (Sarni).  Beloved sister of Virginia Mullen and her late husband Bill of Revere.  Adored aunt of Michael Mullen and his wife Kim Chin of Saugus, Therese Mullen and her partner Gino Marino of Saugus and Steven Mullen of Revere.  Cherished great-aunt of Adelina and Anthony.  Dorothy also leaves behind her cat Gypsy. Dorothy was an employee for over 40 years at American Biltrite where she retired as payroll supervisor. Dottie’s faith was extremely important to her. She was a devoted parishioner at St. Anthony’s Church in Revere. She was a past member of the Lady’s Sodality. She enjoyed bingo and an occasional trip to Las Vegas. Dottie will be remembered for her kind and generous spirit, always one to pick up the tab for both family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dorothy’s memory to St. Anthony’s Church, 250 Revere Street, Revere, MA 02151. In accordance with the CDC’s current restrictions on gatherings due to Covid-19, all services will be held privately. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. For guestbook, please visit www.buonfiglio.com.

Augustin Iraheta Martinez, Sr.

August 28, 1955 – May 6, 2020

José Agustín Iraheta Martínez Sr.

28 de agosto del 1955 – 6 de mayo del 2020

José Agustín Iraheta Martínez, de 64 años de edad nació en San Vicente, El Salvador el día 28 de agosto de 1955. Hijo de Cleotilde y Dorotea Iraheta. En 1973 conoció a su amada Aracely, y contrajeron matrimonio por la iglesia el 30 de junio de 1989. Obtuvo su licenciatura y maestría en administración de empresas de la Universidad Tecnológica. Pertenecía a la Iglesia Santa Rosa de Lima donde lidero grupos y fue Ministro de Eucaristía. Jose entró en eterno descanso con Dios el miércoles 6 de mayo del 2020.  Jose amo y lucho por su familia hasta el final. Jose fue: un esposo amoroso, vivía por su esposa, un padre ejemplar y un abuelo cariñoso. Ante todo, él era un caballero y un gran hombre.  En su vida profesional tuvo una larga y variada vida laboral. Su carácter se definió por su trabajo y el amor que tenía por su familia y amigos. Él sirvió como un guía para muchos, siempre extendiendo una mano para ayudar a los demás. En su ausencia su memoria y legado vivirán en todas las personas que lo conocieron.  Jose tomo cada día como un regalo de Dios, el cual compartía con todos los que lo conocieron. Ahora es tiempo de devolver este regalo a la paz eterna de nuestro Señor.  La familia Iraheta desea agradecer sinceramente al equipo médico de cuidados intensivos de Mass General Hospital por su asistencia cariñosa que brindaron en sus últimos días.  Quedan para atesorar su memoria: su esposa Aracely Iraheta: sus hijos; Yesica y Danny Santos, Karla Iraheta de Carmona y Roberto Carmona, y José Iraheta Jr. y Denise Ortega de Iraheta; 2 nietos; 6 hermanas; numerosos sobrinos y sobrinas; familia extensa y un gran cirulo de amigos. 

Una despedida familiar en privado se llevará a cabo el 12 de mayo del 2020, seguida de una procesión y una bendición fúnebre en las puertas de su amada Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima, que concluirá con oraciones junto a la tumba y entierro en el Cementerio de Holy Cross, Malden. Familiares y amigos se despedirán desde la seguridad de sus autos en la iglesia y en el cementerio antes del entierro.

La pandemia causada por el COVID-19 a afectado todos los aspectos de nuestra vida incluyendo la forma en que penamos. Una de estas restricciones es el no poder recibir ramos florales. En lugar de flores favor continúen celebrando la vida de Jose en oración y manteniéndose seguros.  

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