George R. Melanson

Scituate – Mr. George R. Melanson, of Scituate, formerly of Waltham, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, October 9, 2022 at the Brockton Veterans Administration Hospital following a period of declining health. He was 90.

George was born in Waltham on January 29, 1932, a son of the late George E. and Eva (Drisdelle) Melanson. George attended Saint Charles High School in Waltham where he was active in sports. He played quarterback on the football team and guard on the basketball team. After graduating from high school he served with the United States Army and was a combat veteran of the Korean War. His unit was one of the most highly decorated units that served during the war and was awarded the Silver Star for valor.

On Valentine's Day, 1953 he married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen P. 'Kay' Tobin at Saint Charles Borromeo Church and the pair lived in Waltham before moving to Scituate in 1991. They also spent many happy winters at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida.

George earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Northeastern University in Boston and until his retirement he worked for MIT's Lincoln Labs. It was there that he was part of the team that helped to develop the Hubble Space Telescope.

He was active in youth sports in Waltham having coached in the Jr. & Sr. Little Nippers as well as Babe Ruth. He also enjoyed playing hockey as an adult and played in a number of competitive leagues. In addition he spent weekends enjoying the depths of the ocean during his scuba diving excursions off Minot Beach in Scituate.

Music was always a big part of his life; he and his beautiful wife, Kay, spent hours and hours listening to music and singing and dancing with friends and family. Whether it be a Broadway show, a Reagle Players Production, a big band concert or a solo performer they could be found enjoying their time together. 'Ole Blue Eyes', Frank Sinatra, was one of his favorites.

In retirement George was able to indulge his passion for golf. He was a longtime member of Scituate Country Club where he won many tournaments and where he earned the moniker 'best putter on the South Shore'.

George had a big heart and a captivating smile. He enjoyed the company of his family and friends, and with a twinkle in his eyes he loved to make them laugh.

In addition to his beloved wife, Kay, he leaves his children, Francis X. Melanson (Brenda) of Marlborough, Maryanne P. Mara (Mike) of Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, George R. Melanson, Jr. (Joan) of Milford and Marlene P. Melanson of Cohasset; his sisters and brothers, Gloria Goodwin of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, Lorraine LeBlanc (Roger) of Hallendale Beach, Florida, William Melanson of Waltham and Lawrence Melanson of Lynnfield; his grandchildren, Michael (Ashley) Melanson, Jason and Nicholas Mara, Lindsay and Lauren Melanson; Brittany Rourke, Jack Cronin, Robin and Reneé LaPorte; his great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Lillian, Benjamin, Charlotte, Camilla, Rayah and Lyla and several nieces, nephews and their families.

George was predeceased by his sisters, the late Geraldine Pendergast and Louise Jones, and his brother-in-law, friend and mentor Ralph Goodwin.

Family and friends will honor and remember George's life by gathering for calling hours on Saturday, October 15th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by his funeral service at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Cudworth Cemetery, Scituate on Tuesday, October 18th, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Old Colony Hospice, 321 Manley Street, West Bridgewater, MA 02379.