Published May 31, 2019
MELROSE — Dana M. Jewell, 81, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at Care One in Wilmington on Thursday, May 23, 2019.
Dana was born in Lawrence on March 16, 1938. Raised and educated in Brookline, Dana was a graduate of Brookline High School and settled in Melrose. Dana was a dedicated employee of the aeronautical manufacturing firm, Chomerics in Woburn for over 40 years. He enjoyed his work, and retired in the late 1980s.
Dana was a well-known and avid outdoorsman. He had vast experience and knowledge in birding and spent countless hours with his wife Ingeborg birding throughout Melrose and beyond. A fixture in the birding community, Dana was regularly spotted identifying uncommon and rare birds at Mt. Hood, Wyoming Cemetery, and Ell Pond. Dana was a longtime member of the Friends of the Middlesex Fells and found great joy leading birding tours with Ingeborg in the Fells. Dana had a great appreciation and respect for nature, and enjoyed sharing his expert knowledge with his friends and fellow birders.
Earlier in life, Dana was highly involved with drag car racing and muscle cars. He served as part of the design and construction team and had a great understanding of race car engine building. With a deep passion for geology, Dana also maintained a large collection of rocks and minerals. A longtime member of the North Shore Rock & Mineral Club, Dana had a vast knowledge of rocks and minerals. Well-respected and generous with his knowledge, Dana was an expert in the field.
Dana was a passionate man who found great joy in sharing his interests and knowledge with others. He was always busy experiencing nature or helping others develop a deeper bond with the outdoors. His kindness in giving, and his knowledge will be forever remembered.
Dana was the beloved husband of Ingeborg Burgraff. Devoted father of Brian Jewell and his wife Elizabeth of Marlborough. Loving grandfather of Kara Jewell and Derek Jewell both of Marlboro. Dear brother of the late Virginia Rand and Rosemary Barr. Also survived by many friends, including his dear friend Randy Barnes and his wife Katie of Melrose.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Dana’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, May 29, and again on Thursday for his funeral service celebrated. Gifts in Dana’s memory may be made to the Friends of the Middlesex Fells, 235 W. Foster St., Melrose MA 02176, or online at www.friendsofthefells.org For online tribute or directions: RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
