Domenic M. “Dom” Antonellis, 86, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved completely and by whom he was loved beyond measure.
Born in Newton, Massachusetts, Dom was the eldest son of Joseph and Lucia Antonellis. Raised in the close-knit Italian-American community affectionately known as “The Lake,” he was a proud first-generation American who maintained a deep appreciation for his family’s roots in San Donato Val di Comino, Italy.
Above all else, Dom loved his family, no one more than his wife of 64 years, Joan (Mardirosian) Antonellis, whom he first met at Watertown High School, where she noticed him singing in the school chorus. Married in June 1962, they built a beautiful life together, grounded in enduring love, devotion and family traditions. They raised their three children in Watertown, and throughout his life, Dom found his greatest happiness in being surrounded by those he loved. No matter how full his professional life became, his family remained his first and greatest priority.
An exceptional athlete, Dom attended Watertown High School before continuing his education at Bullis Academy in Maryland, where he distinguished himself on the football field as an All-American. He went on to Boston College, where he continued his outstanding football career, earning All-American and Harry Agganis athletic recognitions and ultimately being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles.
His years at Boston College began a lifelong devotion to the university and its football program. Dom was an “Eagle” through and through. He took immense pride in his alma mater, remaining a dedicated supporter and season ticket holder throughout his life. Few things brought him greater enjoyment than a Saturday Boston College football game. Just as meaningful were the friendships forged on the field, which endured for decades through regular gatherings, annual dinners, and a lasting brotherhood among his fellow Eagles. Boston College was not simply where Dom played football; it launched his professional pursuits and remained a part of his legacy that has reaped two more BC generations with almost 20 family members with Boston College diplomas.
Dom’s professional career was equally distinguished and a testament to his extraordinary work ethic and leadership. He received engineering training with Ford and General Motors, which fostered his expertise in manufacturing. He began his career at New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) loading trucks and, through dedication, rose to become its President and Chief Executive Officer. Spanning over 4 decades with the company, he helped transform NECCO into a major player in the American confectionery industry, significantly expanding its business, product portfolio, and reach.
Under his leadership, the company grew through beloved candy brands and product lines including NECCO Wafers, Sky Bar, Mary Jane, Clark Bar, Candy Cupboard boxed chocolates and the iconic Sweethearts Conversation Hearts. His legacy also included the preservation of NECCO’s historic Cambridge building on Mass. Ave. and the relocation of the company’s headquarters to Revere, Massachusetts.
His contributions to the industry were recognized through his induction into the Candy Hall of Fame and receipt of the prestigious Kettle Award. Beyond these professional honors, Dom took tremendous pride in the people with whom he worked. Many of the relationships he built over his long career remained enduring friendships, and he regarded his NECCO colleagues as an extension of his family.
After 25 years residing in Wellesley, MA, Dom cherished the years he and Joan made Marco Island, Florida, home, with summers spent along the Bass River on Cape Cod. He enjoyed golf and took great pleasure in working with his hands. Exceptionally capable and resourceful, he was happiest taking on house projects, and he passed along his knowledge and skill to his son, Rick.
Throughout his life, Dom was a man of unwavering integrity, remarkable generosity, and faith. He carried himself with dignity and had a natural warmth that made others genuinely enjoy his company. Guided by his principles, he believed in doing what was right, treating others with respect, and honoring his commitments. His generosity extended well beyond his family, and he earned the lasting affection and respect of those fortunate enough to know him.
In addition to the love of his life, wife, Joan, Dom is survived by his sister, Marie Gadbois, and brother Joseph (“Joe”) and wife MaryLynn. Dom survived his brother and best friend, Loreto, and Larry’s wife, Annie, of Watertown.
Dom was both father and superhero to his children: Robin Antonellis, Richard Antonellis and his wife, Josephine Antonellis, and Jill Antonellis.
He was the proud grandfather of Danielle Herzlich and her husband, Mark; Deena Pettengill and her husband, Zach; Michael Antonellis and his wife, Erin; Matthew Antonellis and his wife, Megan; Richard Antonellis and his wife, Alana; Timothy Antonellis and his wife, Margaret; Grace “Vi” Conti; Meredith O’Mara; and Garrett O’Mara.
He was also the cherished great-grandfather of Boston, Joanie Jet, and Bishop Herzlich; Maze and Alden Pettengill; and Patrick, Michael, Elizabeth, Jack, and Lucia Antonellis.
Affectionately known as “Uncle Dom” to many nieces and nephews. He loved each of them very much.
For all that Dom achieved in his lifetime, nothing brought him greater pride than the family he and Joan built together. His legacy is one of love, hard work, integrity, generosity, and a life lived purposefully. He will be remembered for the iconic example he set and the lasting impact he had.