Published February 8, 2019
MELROSE — Robert J. Sammataro, 72, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 3, 2019 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers.
Robert was born on August 17, 1946 in Stoneham, son of the late Francis and Josephine (Castro) Sammataro. Raised in Everett, Bob graduated from Everett High School, Class of 1964, and enlisted into the United States Army as a military policeman. Bob was trained in Georgia before his deployment to Germany during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1968 as an SP4 and forever remained proud of his service to our country. On October 12, 1969, Bob was married to Joanne DeMattia and they settled in Melrose to start a family. Bob worked as a dedicated project manager for Raytheon Corp. for 35 years, and made several dear friends with his fellow colleagues that he maintained throughout his life.
A resourceful man, Bob took pride in doing work around the house. He enjoyed collecting especially Vietnam memorabilia, retro telephones and nostalgic gadgets. He also had a love for fine shoes, his many pristine Cadillacs, and always dressed himself well. With a great sense of humor, a love for good food, and lots of laughter, Bob was the life of the party for many years. However, Bob’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband to Joanne, a supportive father to Nicole, and a doting grandfather. He found great joy in sharing a good meal with his grandchildren, and making sure they were well taken care of. He will be greatly missed, but always lovingly remembered for the pride he instilled in his family.
Bob was the beloved husband of Joanne T. (DeMattia) Sammataro with whom he shared nearly 50 years of marriage. Devoted father of Nicole Merenda and her husband Jonathan of Andover. Cherished grandfather of Anthony Merenda and Grace Merenda. Caring brother-in-law of Joseph DeMattia and his wife Catherine of Woburn, the late Marie Santos and her late husband John, and the late Nicholas DeMattia and his surviving wife Joyce of Medford. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends were invited to gather in honor of Bob’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, Feb. 6 and again on Thursday before leaving in procession to St. Mary’s Church, Herbert St., Melrose for his funeral Mass. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose with military honors presented by the U.S. Army. For more info please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
