Francis Leon DeCosta

Francis L. “Deke” DeCosta, age 91, of Wakefield passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025 at his residence.

He was born in Watertown, MA on March 9, 1934 to the late Joseph and Geneva (Refuse) DeCosta.

Deke had graduated from Arlington High School and later from Northeastern University. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served his country in both capacities of active and reserve time. He worked 45 years as an electrical engineer at Harvard University, until his retirement.

He was the beloved husband of the late Veronica C. “Vera” (Graham). He was the loving father of Michael DeCosta of Boston, Stephen DeCosta and his wife Adrian of Fort Worth, TX, Jeanne DeCosta of Tijeras, NM, Dawn DeCosta of Wakefield, and Christopher DeCosta and his wife Kelly of Ft. Meyers, FL. He was the adoring grandfather of Joseph, Daniel, Alexander, Kristen, Elliot, and Hazel; and the cherished great grandfather of Theodore, Stephen, Sara, Morgan, Sloane and Alexandra. He was the brother of Janet Ginivisian of MA, Marilyn Risser of FL, and Ruth Mink of PA. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and extended family.

His Funeral Service will be private. Arrangements were made in the care of the McDonald Funeral Home, Wakefield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741.