Calling hours will be held in Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Rd., Fitchburg on Sunday, December 19, from 2-5pm. The funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 20 at 11:00am in Saint Anthony di Padua Church, 84 Salem St., Fitchburg MA 01420. Burial will be held privately.
John Pagnotta died suddenly while at work on December 7, 2021. Do not mourn “’cause every little thing gonna be alright”.
He and his wife, Joanne (Taitano) had the deepest love. They are described by others as “true embodiments of commitment, sacrifice and unconditional love” and amazing examples to all.
His wife, children, and grandchildren gave him the greatest joy. He is survived by his children Mark Couture of Leominster and Jessica Lawrence and her husband Randy of Hyde Park, VT, grandchildren Tai & Lola Couture and William & Nicholas Lawrence.
He also leaves his daughter-in-law Jackie Couture, the Pagnotta brothers and sisters-in-law Deacon Phil & Nancy, Lake Forest, IL; Tom & Claire, Hooksett, NH; Dave & Ginny, Long Beach, CA; and Jim & Maria, Winter Springs, FL; his in-laws and their families Suzette Aki, Aileen Adams, Jim Aki, Winnie Tamaye, and Mary Lee Gamache. John had many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
Forever in his heart will be his ‘lil bro, John Zarrella, longtime friend, Ed Kaczor, and his other soul mate, Vicky Zarrella.
He is predeceased by his parents Phillip and Bettina, nephew William Baxter, mother-in-law, Sally Taitano, and brother-in-law Barry Aki. His son, Antonio Taitano Pagnotta, died before birth.
John was the kind and gentle giant everyone loved! He inherited his athleticism from his father. He played softball, deck hockey, candlepin bowling and golf. His golf achievements include two hole-in-ones and a 69. John was an accomplished wood craftsman, many of his projects were gifts of love to others. In their earlier years, John and Joanne volunteered for many organizations.
He enjoyed experiences rather than material things. Time spent with his family included trips to Italy, Puerto Rico, and Alaska. He enjoyed simple pleasures like playing in the sand with his grandchildren, apple picking, pumpkin carving and gazing at the stars.
John was a graduate of St. Bernard’s High School and worked at Trudeau Homes International (formerly known as Deck House) for the past 44 years.
The family wishes to thank Fr. Juan of St. Anthony’s, the Seaman Paper of MA family, THI and everyone who has prayed or reached out. If you attend services, the family asks for no tears but stories about John and your attire to reflect your relationship with him (golf caps, hockey shirts, or show reminders).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to St. Anthony of Padua Church, 84 Salem Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420.
COVID protocol: visitors are required to wear masks, Monk would have liked that.