Kenneth Thompson
His love, guidance, and gentle presence will be deeply missed
and forever remembered
Kenneth Thompson of Boston passed away peacefully surrounded by his son, Brian and daughter, Kelly on February 7, 2026.
He was born on January 9, 1937 in Boston to the late Charles Thompson and Gladys Alessi and her husband, Edward. Kenneth was a devoted and loving father to Brian Thompson and his wife, Melissa, Kelly Tinnirello and her husband, Joe, Kenneth Thompson, Robert Thompson and Scott Thompson. He was a cherished grandfather to Ryan, Cameron, Mia and Ayla, who brought him great joy. He was the beloved brother of the late Sonny Thompson and James Thompson and Arthur Alessi. He was the former husband of Rose Marie Thompson.
Kenneth served in the United States Marine Corp from 1956 to 1959. Kenneth “Papa” was adored by his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He took great pride in each of them and cherished the time they spent together. His love, guidance, and gentle presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family.
Family and friends will honor Kenneth’s life by gathering at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home, East Boston, on Saturday, February 28th from 9 to 11 a.m. before leaving in procession to St. John the Evangelist Church / St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Winthrop for an 11:30 a.m. funeral mass.
To leave an online condolence visit www.ruggieromh.com.
Paul Belanger
MBTA retiree, known for his strong work ethic
Paul Belanger of East Boston passed away peacefully in his sleep after a long illness.
He was the beloved husband of the late Patricia (Diminico) Belanger, with whom he shared 50 devoted years of marriage until her passing on December 18, 2023. Paul proudly dedicated 28 years of service to the (MBTA) Green Line as a Train Inspector. He was known for his strong work ethic, commitment and pens he so generously passed out to everyone along his path.
Paul and Patricia built a loving life together. Although they had no children, their home was always filled with the joy of their many cherished dogs. They generously supported numerous dog rescue organizations and charities throughout the years.
Paul was one of ten siblings. He is survived by his sisters: Maryanne Lyons of Lynnfield, Edna May Belanger of New Hampshire, Dorothy Melito of Peabody and Grace Monaco of New Hampshire and his brothers, Joseph Belanger of New Jersey and Robert Belanger of Revere. He was predeceased by his sister, Lana Thurman of Lynn and his brothers, Angelo Monaco of Peabody and James Monaco of Charlestown. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed and remembered by those who knew and loved him.
Family and friends honored Paul’s life by gathering at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home, 971 Saratoga St., East Boston on Monday, February 16th and again on Tuesday morning before leaving in funeral procession to Sacred Heart Church, Brooks St., East Boston for a funeral mass in celebration of Paul’s life. Services concluded with Paul being laid to rest with his beloved wife, Patricia at Puritan Lawn Memorial
Nunzio “Butch” Celona
He touched the lives of young athletes as dedicated president and coach for East Boston Little League, Senior League, football, street hockey and ice hockey
Nunzio “Butch” Celona, a lifelong resident of East Boston, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Boston to the late Frank Celona and Margaret “Margie” (D’Amelio) Celona, Butch was predeceased by his siblings, Jimmy Celona and Rosanne “RoRo” Sawtelle. He is survived by his beloved sister, Josephine “JoJo” Freni. Butch was the devoted husband of Dolores “DeDe” (Potenza) Celona and a proud and loving father to Frankie and Lori; Robert and Marie; Chris and Tricia; and Craig and Heidi. He was predeceased by his cherished son, Peter. He was the proud grandfather of Chanel, Franco, Craig, Sophia, Christopher, Jonathan and Chloe, and was predeceased by his grandson, Robert Jr. He was also a loving great-grandfather to Stella and Robert.
Butch was a retired Track Maintenance Supervisor for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Blue Line and a lifelong member of the Loyal Order of the Moose. He also served as a dedicated president and coach for East Boston Little League, Senior League, Football, street hockey, and ice hockey, touching the lives of countless young athletes. Known for his generous heart and steady presence, Butch was a friend and mentor to many throughout East Boston. He was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him. Family and friends will honor Butch’s life by gathering at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home on Saturday, February 21st from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. before leaving in procession to Sacred Heart Church for a 1:30 p.m. Memorial Mass. To leave an online condolence, visit www.ruggieromh.com.