Seraphin "Fee" DaPonte

Seraphin “Fee” DaPonte, a lifelong resident of Bristol, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his beloved wife and devoted family. He was the cherished husband of Marjorie (Gardiner) DaPonte, with whom he had just celebrated 70 wonderful years of marriage this past September.

Fee was a proud father to Mary Caron (Don), Seraphin (Celeste Berry), Kathy Floor (Adam), Michael (Susan Cabral), and Carol Castigliego (Bruce). His love for family was the foundation of his life.

Born on July 24, 1934, to Georgina (Almeida) and Serafim DaPonte, Fee was raised on the Perry Plat. He began his working life running the family’s poultry farm and delivery business, a humble beginning where he developed his strong work ethic. In 1969, alongside his wife Marge, he founded DaPonte’s Landscaping, a business that became a trusted and enduring part of the East Bay community. Fee took immense pride in his work and retired (he would say “never!”), comforted by the knowledge that his children and grandchildren would carry on his legacy. He was born, lived, and worked on the same land for his entire life.

A proud Bristolian, Fee was honored to be selected as the 202nd Chief Marshal of the Bristol Fourth of July Parade (1987). July 4th was his favorite day of the year, and he could always be found on High Street at his son’s home, often stopping the parade to greet marchers with handshakes and hugs. Fee truly embodied the spirit of the celebration and the “American Dream”.

Fee and Marge were worldwide travelers. They shared their love of travel with their children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories including family adventures in Florida and milestone anniversary trips to both Bermuda (50th) and the Bahamas (60th).

He spent many winters in Punta Gorda, Florida, where he enjoyed golfing with his buddies and playing cards with Marge and their many friends and visitors. He brought his boat from Bristol to Florida so he could share his love of the ocean with his friends in both locations. His welcoming warmth, humor, and good-natured ribbing made him a beloved friend to many.

Becoming a “Papa” was one of Fee’s greatest joys. He is survived by nine grandchildren and their spouses, and six great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life. His legacy will continue through their laughter, stories, and demands for golf-cart rides.

Fee was predeceased by his siblings: Manuel, Mary, Joseph and Georgina.

The DaPonte family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Fee’s caregivers for their compassion and dedication, especially Dr. Paul Agatiello, whose kindness and expertise brought comfort and peace during his final days.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday November 6 at 10am, St. Mary’s Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol, Rhode Island. Burial will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

The family requests that you kindly omit flowers. In lieu, we would greatly appreciate donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Dana Farber Cancer Institute.