Gino Aldo Pacitto

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Gino Aldo Pacitto, who left us peacefully on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 52.

Born in Utica, New York, on August 3, 1973, Gino was a source of light, laughter, and unwavering love for everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. He had a rare and beautiful gift — the ability to make people feel truly seen. Whether through his warm smile, his witty humor, or the countless quiet ways he showed up for family and friends, Gino was the kind of man who remembered what you said, showed up when you needed him, and always made you feel special.

If you knew Gino, you knew that the one thing he loved most in this world was his son, River. The bond between them was something to behold. Gino poured himself into fatherhood with the same generosity and gentleness he brought to everything he loved. That bond is unbreakable, and River carries his father's heart with him always.

Gino felt most at home in nature, hiking trails with his beloved dog Chief by his side, beach walks, working on home projects, and losing himself with his favorite music tunes or in a good book. Gino graduated Summa cum laude from Manchester Community College and dedicated his career to healing others as a talented respiratory therapist at New Britain General Hospital and throughout the Hartford Hospital Medical Group — a calling that suited him perfectly, because caring for people was simply who he was.

He is loved and survived by his son River Pacitto; his mother, Joy Pacitto; his father, Howard Wettreich; his twin sister, Mia Belanger, and brother-in-law, Jay Belanger; River's mother, Molly McIntyre; Avory Vitello, sister of River; stepmother Susie Prelaz; brothers Aldo Prelaz and Anthony Prelaz; sister Joann Strazullo; and his extended family who cherished him deeply. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Prelaz. His memory lives on in every story told, every tradition he loved, and every person whose life he touched.

The family asks for privacy to honor and cherish our precious Gino. Gatherings to celebrate Gino’s life will be coordinated soon.

In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Gino’s generous spirit, for those who wish to honor his memory and help to ensure his teenage son’s future continues to be cared for, the following fund has been established for River.

Gino, you have left us with the greatest gift of knowing you and experiencing your love. Your legacy will remain in our hearts forever.

https://gofund.me/ea9b9cae8