Crystal Lake, Illinois
Phil Pagano, 60, esteemed executive director of Metra for 20 years has left behind many who admired his dedication to the agency and its employees, and of course his beloved family: wife Barbara (Gee), daughters Colleen (Rick)Buck, Bartlesville, OK, Jennifer (Edward) Heiser, Chicago, granddaughter Gianna Rose Buck, father Louis A. Pagano (North Babylon, NY) and sister Anne Marie (North Babylon, NY). Mother Helen (Silvestro) preceded him in death. In addition to his dedication to leading the country's second largest commuter rail system, Phil served on various community and industry boards and committees. Last month, Phil was recognized for his devotion to supporting diversity initiatives and minority rights when he received the Gospel Tribune's 2010 Keeper of the Dream CEO of the Year award. Phil's love for golf was exceeded only by his love for his family. Visitation on Tuesday from 10am through 8pm and memorial service at 10am on Wednesday will be held at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Avenue (Route 176) in Crystal Lake. Donations may be made to Alzheimer's Foundation, Breast Cancer Network of Strength or Northern IL Girl Scout Council. Visit davenportfamily.com, where online condolences can be left for his family. For information, 815-459-3411.
Dear Pagano family, I haven't seen you all in years but wanted to let you know you all are in my prayers. Having spent a lot of time with you in high school I will always remember Mr Pagano as a strong and kind man. Always treating all of us kids with nothing but respect.
Christopher Gumprecht
May 31, 2010 | Chicago, IL
Dear Mrs. Pagano and family--My wife and I have been out of the country most of the month--and it was just today I was able to catch up with Chicago area news. I served on the RTA board for over 11 years--ending in 2002. During virtually all that time I respected Phil and viewed him as the heavy rail segments top professional nationally--and a special "gift" to Chicago area commuters. He was the best! You have my deepest sympathy. I shall remember him in my prayers.
Herbert E. Gardner
May 26, 2010 | New Smyrna Beach, FL
I work in public transit and I also have a love for the people of Ill., namely Chicago. I will offer prayers for Mr.Pagano's eternal rest and for you comfort. We loved him, but God loves him best.
Keith Edwards
May 13, 2010
My sincere sympathy to the Pagano family. Those of us in the transit industry have lost a valued colleague who brought much to our efforts. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Fran Hooper
May 13, 2010 | Covesville, VA
To Phil Pagano's Family ~
I worked around Phil for many years. I was very saddened by his passing. I went to Fourth Presbyterian Church this past Sunday for a special Mother's Day Concert. The Chicago Chamber Concert played Mozart with Dieter Kober conducting. I prayed and asked God to send all the beautiful music to Phil's heart so that he may feel at peace. May God Bless all of you during this time and give you strength as you move forward.
Barbara Thomas
May 12, 2010 | Chicago, IL
My heart goes out to the family in this time of need, so sorry for your loss..
Denise Cole
May 12, 2010 | Villa Park, IL
Barbara,Colleen,Rick,Gianna,Jennifer & Ed...our love & prayers are with you all...Phil was very special to all of us and we hold close to our hearts the many memories we have of happy times we spent together...God bless all of you!
JoAnn,Rich,Kim,Chris & Marisa Aloisi
May 12, 2010 | North Babylon, NY
The good that Phil did will live a long time after his passing away. To a hard working,dedicated and visionary railroader.
DC Agrawal
May 11, 2010 | Princeton, NJ
My deepest sympathy to Phil's family. May God be with all of you in your time of sorrow.
Peter Cannito
May 11, 2010 | Havre De Grace, MD