Published in the October 5, 2018 edition

MELROSE — Joseph V. Diggin, 68,  passed away at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital on September 28, 2018 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

 Joseph was born in Boston on February 1, 1950 to the late Edward and Alice (Thornton) Diggin. He was raised in Dorchester, graduated from Dorchester High School and attended Boston State College. Joseph lived in Malden for several years and has been a resident of Melrose since 1977. Mr. Diggin worked for the MBTA for over 25 years, first as a bus driver, then in the mechanical division and finished his career as an accounting clerk.

He was a former member of the Wakefield Lodge of Elks, was a huge Patriots fan and was a longtime season ticket holder. Joe enjoyed fishing in White River in Vermont, renting a house every summer on the Saco River in North Conway and doing the Boston Globe crossword puzzle every morning. He also loved the trips he took driving across the United States coast to coast three times. But above all he cherished the times spent with his family and granddaughter Kylie.

He was the beloved husband of 23 years to the late Linda J. (Eagan) Diggin. Loving father of Melissa A. Diggin and Kristina M. Diggin both of Melrose. Cherished grandfather of Kylie Helen Copithorne of Melrose. Caring brother of Michael Diggin and his wife Charlotte, Kathleen Cahalane and her husband James, Gerard Diggin, John Diggin and the late Edward Diggin. Also survived by several nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Tuesday, October 2. A funeral service was held at Gately Funeral Home on Wednesday October 3. Relatives and friends were respectfully invited to attend. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joseph’s name to the PKD Foundation, 1001 East 101st St.Terrace, Suite 220, Kansas City, MO 64131. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com