Frederick R Petrone

Frederick Richard Petrone, 78, of Everett, MA, passed away peacefully at the High Point Hospice House in Haverhill on February 5, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on April 3, 1947, in Boston, MA, Frederick was the beloved son of Emilio Petrone and Juliette.

Known affectionately as “Freddy,” he attended Malden High School, graduating with the Class of 1965. He pursued studies in computing and earned credits at Northeastern University. Fred began his professional career at IBM and also served proudly in the U.S. Air Force.

Fred spent more than 50 years working with an entrepreneurial spirit. From building and operating restaurants from the ground up to creating a lasting local landmark, Petrone’s Pizza on Main Street in Melrose, his passion and drive were evident in everything he did.

He was admired for his strong work ethic, generosity, and resilience in facing life’s challenges. Fred took immense pride in his six children and numerous grandchildren, who were central to his life and joy.

In his retirement years, Fred relished time spent on golf, card games, and preparing delicious meals. Summers at York Beach, Maine, were a favorite, as were trips to Kentucky, Italy, California, and a cross-country adventure. Most recently, he had been planning to make Maine his forever summer home—a dream cut short, yet one that had already filled him with excitement and joy. Friends and family remember Fred for his easygoing, “go with the flow” nature and his warm, kindhearted spirit.

Fred is survived by his six children—Julie Key (Charles), Lorri O’Brien (Paul), Freddy Petrone (Joy), Joseph Petrone (Kayla), Christopher Petrone (Jessica), and Nicholas Petrone—and his eight beloved grandchildren: Lucy, Chloe, Charlie, Brady, Paul, Dolly, Donald and Jaxon. He also leaves his former wife, Debbie “Penta” Petrone, who remained a constant and caring presence throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emilio and Juliette, and his sister, Lorraine Wolf. He also leaves a lifelong friend and business partner, Richard “Scup” Scarpaci, a devoted sister-in-law, Trisha Penta, and numerous friends and in-laws who were close to his heart.

A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, February 14, at 11:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Church, 487 Broadway, Everett. Visitation will take place from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM at Salvatore Rocco & Sons Funeral Home, 331 Main Street, Everett.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “I Got Bridged” in Fred Petrone’s memory.

 "I Got Bridged" 160 Court Street #105, Portsmouth NH 03801

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