Retired Natick Chief of Police John Arena at the age of 97, lifelong resident of Natick and patriarch of the Arena family died at this home on the morning of March 20, 2020. He was born June 21, 1922 to the late Antonio and Grazia LaScala Arena who were Sicilian immigrants.

John was a 1942 graduate of Natick High School and was inducted into the Natick High School Wall of Achievement on November 24, 1998 for his accomplishments and contributions to the community. About six months after graduating, John was drafted into the Army during World War II and was assigned to the 25th Tank Battalion of the 14th Armored Division.  The division was known as “The Liberators.”