Robert E. Dagdigian

Robert Edwin Dagdigian died at home in Needham on Friday, Sept. 28, surrounded by his family. He was 93.  

He was the devoted husband of Beatrice (Kirkpatrick) Dagdigian for almost 67 years. He is survived by four children, who cherished him as he cherished them: Steven (Barbara Matson) of Dedham, Nancy (Kevin) Barrett of Holderness, N.H., Mardy (Rob) Claus of Needham, and Janet Dagdigian Zafiris of Holland. Patriarch of a large, loving family, he was the beloved grandfather of 11 and great grandfather of nine who never failed to remind his loved ones: Don’t forget who loves you.

Born in Reading, Bob was the son of Aram and Elsie Dagdigian, and brother of John, Walter, Elizabeth, and James Dagdigian.

When World War II broke out, he joined the Navy at 17. Bob spent 3½ years in the Navy serving as a radioman/gunner aboard the USS Saginaw Bay in the Pacific Theater.

A 1941 graduate of Reading High School and the University of Maine (class of 1950), Bob had a 37-year career with Star Market. 

Affectionately known as the Mayor of Willow Street, he was a friend and mentor to his children, his children’s friends, and all the neighborhood children. Bob, who spent many hours on the playing fields and ice surfaces of Needham, was an active coach and mentor for legions of Needham youth. 

Visiting hours will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave, Needham on Tuesday, Oct. 2nd from 4-8 p.m. A memorial service will be held in the Christ Episcopal Church, 1132 Highland Ave, Needham, on Wednesday, Oct. 3rd at 11 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Christ Episcopal Church, 1132 Highland Ave. Needham, MA, or VNA Hospice, 199 Rosewood Drive, Suite 180, Danvers, MA 01923.

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