The Albanian-American community mourns the loss of Ronald Nasson, a revered figure and chairman of the Albanian-American Veterans Association, who passed away at the age of 91.
Born on August 8, 1932, in Jamaica Plain to Albanian immigrants Andrew Nasson and Natalie Apostoli, Ronald Nasson grew up steeped in Albanian culture and patriotism. His parents, who arrived in the USA in 1915, were naturalized American citizens by 1920. Despite serving in the U.S. military and pursuing higher education, Nasson maintained a profound connection to his Albanian heritage.
His formative years coincided with World War II, a period that instilled in him a deep respect for military service. Many Albanian-Americans, including Nasson, donned the American uniform during this time, with some even deployed to Albania to support anti-fascist factions.
Nasson enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1950, driven by a sense of duty and patriotism. He later served in the Korean War as a marine, an experience that left him with profound respect for his fellow servicemen but also with harrowing memories of combat.
Upon returning to the U.S., Nasson dedicated himself to supporting his fellow veterans, joining the Albanian-American Veterans Association in 1946 and eventually leading it as its chairman. He was instrumental in preserving the legacy of Albanian-American veterans and fostering community among them.
Nasson also played a key role in commemorating the contributions of Albanian-American soldiers during World War II in Albania. He was a driving force behind the establishment of a memorial in Korçë, honoring the 26 Americans of Albanian descent who served in Albania during the war. This initiative came to fruition in 2014 with a state ceremony attended by notable figures, including Nasson himself.
Apart from his military and community contributions, Nasson led a full personal life. He was married to Iris for nearly seven decades, with whom he had a large and loving family of 10 children and 17 grandchildren. A devout member of the Albanian Orthodox Church, he maintained close ties to his faith community.
Nasson’s passing is not only a loss to his family but also to the wider Albanian-American community, veterans, and the nation. His commitment to service, community, and heritage remains an inspiring legacy.
The funeral service will be held today at the Albanian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George in Boston, followed by interment at Forest Hills Cemetery. The family has requested donations to the Cathedral in lieu of flowers.
Ronald Nasson’s memory and his dedication to his community and country will be forever cherished.
