Carole E. (Belanger) Portentoso

Carole E. (Belanger) Portentoso, of Waltham, died at home with her family by her side on Friday, April 19, 2024. She was 83. 

Carole was born January 23, 1941 in Wakefield, the daughter of the late Philip and Eva (Dion) Belanger. She graduated from Wakefield High School. Carole married Belmont native Michael V. Portentoso on April 15, 1967 and they settled in Waltham, where they created their home for over 57 years. 
 
Carole worked as a secretary in the speech and hearing department of Waltham Hospital for many years.

She was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted in Waltham where she taught CCD, served as past-president of its Ladies Guild as well as the Saint Vincent de Paul Society of Our Lady’s. Steadfast in her convictions and values, she was active in local politics and a longtime volunteer for Mayor Jeannette McCarthy. Her quiet and humble approach were the hallmark of her efforts to contribute to make Waltham an even better place to live and work. Carole had a natural talent for art and creative expression – homemade crafts were always in the works with her and her children. She loved the role of ‘Nana’ and will be remembered as an amazing baker. Her sugar cookies, marble cakes and annual Yuletide logs were among her most requested items. 

She was predeceased by her siblings, Ronald Belanger (late Geraldine), Russell Belanger (late Lucille) and the late Robert Belanger (late Millie); her in-laws, Antonetta Portentoso, Concetta ‘Connie’ Danforth (late Robert), Louise Dwyer (late Paul) and Joseph Portentoso.

In addition to her husband of 57 years, Michael, she leaves her children, Janice M. Portentoso of Fairfield, Connecticut and Thomas M. Portentoso (Keri) of Pembroke; her grandchildren, Sophia and Liliane Guerrera, and Laurel, Genevieve and Vivienne Portentoso; her sister-in-law, Susan Portentoso of Mashpee; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Family and friends will gather to celebrate and honor Carole’s life at The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Sunday, April 28th from 2 to 5 p.m. and again at 10 a.m. on Monday morning before leaving in procession to Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted, 880 Trapelo Road, Waltham where her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham.

Memorials in her name may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society, in c/o Our Lady’s Parish, 920 Trapelo Road, Waltham, MA 02452.