MIDDLETON — Domenico “Dom” Civiello celebrated his 100th birthday with family and friends Saturday night at Ferncroft Country Club. The lifelong Lynner was born Nov. 9, 1919 to Canio and Teresa Civiello. Attendees came from as far away as France, Italy, Florida, Colorado and Maryland.
Dom met his high school sweetheart Marie Iacono in 1938, and they married five years later at Holy Family Church in Lynn. They have five children (Joanne, Betty, Barbara, Brenda and Robby), and have 4 grandchildren (Heather, Anthony, Domenic and Olivia) and two great grandchildren (Molly and Emily). Marie passed away in 2000. Dom also had an older sister, Maria Francesca (Frances), and younger siblings Carmela (Camille) and Anthony (Sonny).
Dom’s family and friends shared these memories:
“Dom went to church every Sunday and attended Sunday School. He was a very good student and Sister Mary Smith approached him and asked him if he’d like to become a priest. Well, I guess we all know that he never became a priest otherwise today we would be calling him Father Dom.”
“When Dom was a young boy, he helped working at his father’s shoe repair business, and has many fond memories especially shining shoes for Red Sox star Johnny Pesky. Pesky and his wife Ruth eventually became Dom’s next-door neighbor on Western Avenue. Dom saw many a Red Sox player visiting Johnny’s house, including Ted Williams.”
“Dom’s has always been an avid sports fan, a business entrepreneur and a great father and husband. Dom has contributed a lot to the city of Lynn and seems to know just about everyone in it. An individual, always proud of his Italian heritage, an active leader in the Lynn Chapter of the Sons of Italy Lodge Riunite.”
“Dom ran track at English High School and played football (left tackle) but was quickly moved to “wingback” due to his speed and agility. One of his football teammates was Jim Hegan, who went on to play baseball for the Red Sox. Dom had the pleasure of speaking with Jim right before a Red Sox game and they both reminisced about their days at Lynn English on the football team.”
“Dom served as track coach for Lynn Trade and then Lynn English for more than 21 years. He is still affectionately known as ‘coach.’ While at Lynn English, Dom coached a number of championship track teams. He also established a Championship Cross-Country City meet with the four Lynn High schools. This special event was held every year on Columbus Day at Lynn Woods. Winners were awarded trophies and ribbons. It was huge success and a landmark accomplishment for Dom and the city of Lynn.”
“Dom guided many students and athletes to go onto bigger and better endeavors. After retiring from coaching, he remained active by officiating track meets.”
“Dom has had a diverse career. Before starting Dom’s Oil Company in 1945, which most of us identify with Dom, he served in the military during WWII, worked at General Electric River Works, sold and delivered Christmas trees and worked as a doughnut maker at Papetti’s Bakery on Summer Street. He also went back to school and earned his certification in Oil Burner Service and Heating Installation.
Dom’s son Robby took over the oil company in 1985 when he retired, and Dom headed back to college to study Massachusetts Laws and Functions as a real estate broker.”
“Always proud of his Italian heritage, Dom has been a proud member of the Sons of Italy, even to this day! He initially joined the Lodge Riunite, was appointed Venerable and awarded the honor of Outstanding Man of the Year. He is currently a member of the Lodge Santa Famiglia.”
“Growing up, Dom loved music and was an avid musician. Along with his buddy and future cousin in-law Jerry Mitchell they formed in an orchestra. Dom played the violin and Jerry played trumpet. Together, they performed on WHDH radio on a Saturday morning program. He still has his violin.”
“Dom always has a smile and has love and compassion for everyone he meets. He has made a difference is so many lives, from his family, his friends, and so many people along the way.”
