Joseph A. Panico, 84, formerly of Hamden and Naples, FL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at the St. Raphael campus/Yale-New Haven Hospital with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of 58 years to Rosemary Bosco Panico. Joseph was born in New Haven on June 9, 1931; son of the late Angelo and Rachel Fraulo Panico; obtained his Bachelor degree from Southern Connecticut State University, his Masters and 6th year from Fairfield University. He served his country faithfully as a Commander in the US Navy during the Korean War. Joseph was a math and physical education teacher at Michael J. Whalen Junior High School, Principal of the Sleeping Giant Junior High School, Assistant Principal at Hamden High School, Health and Athletic Director for the Town of Hamden. Joseph was also an avid golfer. Father of Mark (Patricia) Panico, David (Barbara) Panico, Brad (Megan) Panico and Lisa (Stephen) Whalen. Grandfather of Michael, John, Elizabeth, Natalie, Bryan(Gabriella), Benjamin and Isabella Panico, Carly, Olivia and Jack Whelan. Brother of James (Shirley) Panico and Anna Dadio.
His funeral procession will leave the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, Friday morning at 9:30. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church at 10:00. Interment with full military honors will follow in All Saints Cemetery. The visiting hours will be Thursday (TODAY) from 5 to 8 pm. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492.
Mr. Panico was one of those educators that stood out from the others: calm, wise, and really tuned to the students. He set a great example for our generation, and I'm sure I'm not alone in saying I'm grateful for that example. Thanks, Mr. P.
Sorry we cannot be there in person to give you all hugs and condolences…so very, very, sorry for your loss.
With love,
"Patty DeRosa" and family
Dave, Barbara, and family,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your dad. I hope that memories can make this difficult time a bit easier.
I will forever remember Mr. Panico who was a great friend to my dad John Edmonds. His memory will always be cherished. Our prayers are with you. May the good Lord keep you.
Sorry for your loss.
Brad and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. He sure sounds like he was a wonderful man who lead a very full life. Your memories will keep him alive in your heart.
Sincerely, Kim Lewis
Dear Family, I worked with Joe for many years and found him to be a caring and compassionate man. He was always available to listen to my concerns. I often thought of him enjoying his retirement in FL. My deepest sympathies to all of you. Love to you, To.