Published in the June 15, 2018 edition
MELROSE — George J. Jannino, Jr., 79, a resident of Melrose and formerly of Everett, passed away peacefully at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston on June 7, 2018.
George was born on April 9, 1939 in Chelsea, one of three sons of the late George J. Jannino and Mary (Gymziak) Jannino. Raised in Chelsea, George graduated from Chelsea High School where he excelled as a star athlete in baseball and football. He earned a business degree from Fisher College in Boston, and enjoyed his work at the Boston Globe as a machinist for over 30 years.
George truly loved the competitive spirit of athletics. Beginning as a young student at Chelsea High, George had a lifelong appreciation for sports, and was a constant supporter of athletics throughout his life. For many years, he loved coaching Everett youth hockey and baseball, and never missed his sons’ sporting events, or his nieces and nephews games. For George, it was never about winning but it was always about showing sportsmanship and being the best you could be.
George also had a love for Cape Cod and the beach. Many happy memories were made while summering in Dennis Port where George taught his sons, nieces and nephews the love of fishing, digging for clams and quahogs, and setting lobster traps in the Cape Cod Canal.
A loyal friend, George had several dear friendships that he cherished. With a close circle of friends, George loved a good competitive game of cards, and looked forward to their annual trip to Saratoga, N.Y. for horse racing.
George was an incredibly generous and thoughtful man to anyone in need. He took great care of his family, and was always ready to offer his support. George set a quiet example with his actions, and was forever proud his family. He will be greatly missed, but always lovingly remembered.
George was the beloved husband of Phyllis M. (Apruzzese) Jannino with whom he shared 56 years of marriage. Devoted father of George J. Jannino, III and his wife Kelli of Dublin, Calif., John L. Jannino and his wife Mary of Tewksbury, and Craig S. Jannino and his husband Sean McCabe of Jamaica Plain. Dear brother of Richard Jannino, and the late William Jannino and his surviving wife Rose. Cherished grandfather of Emma, Nathaniel, Michael, and Giovanni. Caring brother-in-law of Vincent Apruzzese and his wife Pat, Catherine Fritz and her husband Vincent, Lou Apruzzese and his wife Sue, and JoAnn Brace and her husband Colin. Also survived by several wonderful nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of George’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose, on Saturday, June 9, followed by his funeral service. Interment with US Army honors at Forest Hill Cemetery, Lynnfield. For directions, or online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
