Donald W. Northrup, Esq., long-time resident of Melrose, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Life Care Center of Stoneham. He was eighty-four.

Donald was born on November 20, 1941, in Melrose, one of two children of the late C. Rupert and Dorothy F. (Butler) Northrup. He spent his formative years building a durable foundation of love and service to others. He graduated from Melrose High School and went on to earn degrees from Tufts University, Boston College Law School, and Northwestern University. 

Donald dedicated much of his professional life to the field of banking, beginning his career as a Trust Officer with Bank of Boston, which later became Bank of America. His commitment to excellence and integrity led him to retire as Senior Vice President. Beyond his professional achievements, he was an educator at the American Banking Institute, and he generously shared his expertise on the board of trustees at ADA Forsyth Institute as treasurer. His passion for leadership was exemplified in his role as President of the Tufts Alumni Association. 

A faithful member and lector for many years at Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Wakefield, Donald was deeply involved in community service, embodying the spirit of generosity and kindness. He brought joy to those around him and had a special love for his family, which was evident in his roles as a great husband, father, and grandfather. An avid reader and a follower of current events, he cherished time spent with his family exploring their shared history, enjoying vacations to Cape Cod and Stowe, Vermont, and sharing his love for life’s simple pleasures. 

Donald was the beloved husband of Christine S. (Szarkowski) Northrup with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. Devoted father of Kathleen and Charles R. Northrup and his wife Maryellen of Wakefield. Loving brother of the late Richard A. Northrup and his surviving wife Mary Lou. Cherished grandfather of Audrey, Elise, Jonathan, Adam, and Lydia.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather in honor of Donald’s life during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Thursday, April 23 from 4-7pm, and again on Friday, April 24 at 9am before leaving in procession to Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield, for his Funeral Mass celebrated at 10am. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.

Memorial contributions may be made in Donald’s memory to Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield, MA 01880.