Riccardo A. Drainoni

It is with great sadness that the family of Riccardo Drainoni announces his passing on Sunday April 13, 2025. He was the beloved husband to Cynthia Drainoni (Wallis), married for 53 years, together for 57. He was son of the late Gaetano Drainoni of Foggia and Mary Amico from East Boston, and brother to Angela, Carmella, Mary, Gaetano, and Robert. He is survived by his wife, and many nieces and nephews.

Born on October 1, 1935, Riccardo grew up in East Boston and overcame poverty of his childhood to become an accomplished engineer. He attended Boston Trade High School, where he distinguished himself in his studies and was a member of the National Honor Society. He graduated from Northeastern University with a B.S., Mechanical Engineering in 1965. He went on to a bright career at multiple companies. He worked at GE Aircraft Engines on the rocket engine for Apollo 11, the spaceflight that put the first man on the Moon. Throughout his career, Riccardo was an inventor who accumulated many patents.

Riccardo was a Korean veteran who faithfully served our country in the U.S. Armed Services. He was stationed in White Sands, NM for active duty.

Riccardo was humble and respected people regardless of their job position or background. Despite his many achievements, he always would spend time with the draftsmen at work, even though his position in the company was higher. He was a great storyteller. He spoke many languages fluently.

He loved singing and Big Band music. When the weather was nice, he and his wife Cynthia could be seen going for rides in his Corvette. He loved cars and was an expert mechanic.

Riccardo was well loved in his neighborhood for his kindness. He was famous for allowing neighborhood kids to come use his backyard to cool off with the sprinkler in the summertime – complete with ice cream sundaes. Riccardo and Cynthia dressed up each Halloween to greet the neighborhood kids with treats.

He will be fondly remembered for his love of life and the kindness he shared.

A Memorial Service will be held for Riccardo Drainoni at a later date.

Arrangements were in the care of the McDonald-Finnegan-Anderson Funeral Home, Stoneham.