Robert M. Zechello, 80, died at 7:45 PM on Saturday, June 15th at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA. He was known to many as “Bob,” and was born on August 9th, 1943, in Boston, MA. He graduated from Brighton High School in 1963. As a child, Robert was a proud Boy Scout and then Eagle Scout. Here, he developed an interest in acts of service, which influenced him to join the Marines, where he served honorably for 6.5 years as a Corporal. Robert also learned the value of loyalty, demonstrated by his 59-year marriage to his wife, Carmela, and his membership to the LOCAL 4 IUOE for 50+ years.
Robert’s work ethic was truly remarkable. He started his career as a paper boy and later at Stop and Shop, laying the foundation for his future. His dedication was evident in his 34 years at Hertz Equipment Rental, formerly known as Lee Crane and Equipment as well as ATS Equipment where he served as the Parts and Service Manager. Even after retirement, he continued to work for 15 years, meticulously maintaining the Mutual One Bank and Loan Office in Framingham, MA.
Robert has been a resident of Framingham, MA since 1972, and is a dedicated community member. His selflessness was a beacon, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and neighbors to make life a little easier for those around him. He truly embodied the spirit of community.
Robert’s devotion to his family was one of his greatest joys. He took immense pleasure in helping his children and grandchildren, instilling an appreciation for a job well done. His guiding principle was to ‘do it right, or don’t do it at all.’ His legacy is family values, respect for others, and always leaving a good tip.
He is survived by his wife Carmela (Lombardi) Zechello of Framingham; his son Michael and wife Cara Andonian Zechello of Whitinsville; his daughter Krista, and husband James Haranas of Marlborough; his two grandchildren Julia and Sophia Zechello; his brother James and wife Anni Zechello of Raynham; his brother Francis and wife Charlotte Zechello of Stoughton; and his sister Marie Zechello and husband Paul McNamara of Bridgewater. Although most family members lived further away, they were never far from his heart and mind.
Family and friends will honor and remember Robert’s life by gathering for visiting hours in the McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home, 11 Lincoln St. Framingham on Wednesday, June 19th from 3-8PM. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Stephen Church, 251 Concord St. Framingham on Thursday morning at 10 o’clock. Entombment will follow in Edgell Grove Cemetery, Framingham.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the ASPCA, www.aspca.org to honor his grandpets: Cash, Cosmo, Dolly, Jett, Jovie, Prima, Tuxedo, and Winnie.
To share a memory with Robert’s family, kindly visit www.mccarthyfh.com
Chesmore Funeral Home