Friend Pays Tribute to Longtime Town Councilor, Purple Heart Recipient

At the end of last week’s Town Council meeting, a long-time follower of Watertown government paid tribute to a former Council Vice President and friend, Ray Musetti.

Musetti died on Aug. 3 at the age of 92, and a funeral service was held on Aug. 8.

Musetti’s friend, Burt Greenberg, spoke about the man who was involved in many groups around Watertown, including being Past Commander American Legion Post 99, Past Distinguished President Watertown Kiwanis Club, Lodge Piave Fiume #1036, Waltham-Watertown Lodge #953, the Disabled American Veterans, and the AMVETS, according to the obituary on Legacy.com.

He worked in the U.S. Postal Service for 35 years, retiring as postmaster. He also was on the original Town Council, which started when Watertown switched to the city-style of government in 1981. He served five terms and rose to vice president.

Greenberg said he was a fine public servant.

“Ray Musetti was a wonderful person and unique in many ways,” Greenberg said. “Probably none of the (current) councilors could measure up to him. He didn’t say a lot, but if you had a problem he would pick you up and carry you around until the problem was resolved.”

Greenberg added that Musetti was also very humble about his accomplishments and awards, including those he received while serving in World War II.

“He had four Purple Hearts!” Greenberg said. “He never talked about that because he did what had to be done.”

Greenberg noted that even he did now know how many medals Musetti received for being injured in combat until after his death. He knew he had one, but saw the four medals displayed at the funeral.

“I hope people strive to be a drop like Ray Musetti,” Greenberg said.

At the end of the meeting, the Town Council had moment of silence in memory of Musetti.