Our condolences to the Pagano family and the Middletown Fire Department of Connecticut. Captain Joseph Pagano Jr., 52, a 28 year veteran of the Middletown Fire Department died Friday November 3, 2006. Joseph was working at the Cross Street fire station in the early evening when he collapsed at his desk from an apparent heart attack. His brother firefighters attempted to revive him using a defibrillator but were unsuccessful. Joseph was rushed to Middlesex Hospital by Hunters Ambulance where he later succumbed to his injuries.

     Joseph joined the department on September 11, 1978, and was promoted to Captain in December 1999. He was also a past President and past member of the Executive Board for Local 1073 Firefighters Union. He was a member of the Middletown Fire Department Honor Guard, the I.A.F.F., B.P.O. Elks Lodge #771, Knights of Columbus, 3rd Degree, and a member of the C.I.A.C. Board of Approved Umpires, Middletown Chapter for which he wore #16. Prior to joining the Middletown Fire Department, Captain Pagano was a dedicated volunteer Firefighter for the South Fire District.

     Our brother Joseph leaves behind his wife, Linda, and his two daughters, Justine and Marlise. Calling hours for Joseph will be held on Wednesday November 8, 2006 5-8PM at Biega Funeral Home in Middletown. A funeral mass will be held for Joseph on Thursday November 9, 2006 10AM at Saint Pius X Church in Middletown followed by a burial at Saint Sebastian Cemetery in Middlefield. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to:

Justine and Marlise Pagano Educational Fund c/o MiddConn Municipal Credit Union 213 Court Street Suite 101 Middletown, CT 06457