John J. McKenna, Sr.

John J. McKenna, Sr., of Waltham, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 4, 2024, at Newton Wellesley Hospital, at the age of 93.

Born in Waltham on March 10, 1931, John was the beloved son of the late Eugene and Madeline (Shea) McKenna. He grew up in Waltham and graduated from Worcester Polytechnic High School. Following his education, John proudly served in the United States Navy on the USS Salem during the Korean War.

On May 26, 1962, John married the love of his life, Yvonne Cormier and they shared 62 years of blessed marriage. Together they built a loving home and raised their family in Waltham, creating countless memories and lasting bonds.

John dedicated many years of his career to construction as a skilled bricklayer, ultimately becoming a proud member and past president of Bricklayers Union #15. During this time, he also served as president of the Moose Club in Waltham. He later worked for the state at Fernald School for a decade.

Passionate about community service, John was an active member of the American Legion, the VFW, and a lifelong parishioner of Our Lady’s Comforter of the Afflicted and member of the Knights of Columbus at Our Lady’s. He shared his musical talents by playing the guitar and piano, often filling the home with Irish tunes, during family gatherings and performing with the Singing Grandpops of the Arlington Men’s Club in his retirement years. John also had a deep love for sports, being an avid fan of the Boston Bruins and a dedicated supporter of Notre Dame football. He also enjoyed reading, particularly books focused on history and politics.

In retirement, John and Yvonne cherished over 30 years at their cottage in Old Town, Maine, on Lake Pushaw. He cherished time spent fishing and boating on the lake, and he delighted in sharing joyful moments with family, especially when tossing his grandchildren into the water while tubing. He was also The Grand Marshal of the Lake Pushaw Fourth of July parade, a testament to his beloved presence in the community.

In addition to his beloved wife Yvonne, John leaves his children, John J. McKenna Jr. (Lori) of Sandwich, Paul B. McKenna of Acton, and Carol A. Frisoli (Larry) of Littleton; his grandchildren, Colin, Sean, and Brendan McKenna, and Katie, Kevin, Jason, Jillian and Mark Frisoli. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his siblings, Francis McKenna, Mary Griffin and Madeline Toomey.

Family and friends will honor and remember John’s life by gathering for an evening wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Monday, September 9th from 4 to 7 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning before leaving in procession to Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Church, 880 Trapelo Road, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham.