ROBERT B. PANELLA

PANELLA, Robert B. Age 82, formerly of Waban, born in Newton Upper Falls, passed away on January 25, 2025. Beloved son of the late Michael J. and Helen J. (Fegan) Panella. Brother of Brian Panella of CA, Michael Panella of Needham, David Panella of Franklin and the late Susan Panella Trombi. Also survived by nieces, Laura and Amy; and nephews, David, Michael, Nico and Jason. Bob was educated in Newton and went on to attend Boston University. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran with a rank of PO-3 and held top secret clearance. He served honorably, from 1966-1970, as a journalist aboard the ships Oklahoma, Providence and aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk, as part of the 7th Fleet in the Indo-Pacific region. He talked often about his years in this region and enjoyed its many peoples and cultures. Bob worked in the family business and in later years, the Town of Wellesley. He enjoyed music, traveling and was an avid reader mostly of history and nature. He had a great fondness for animals. Visitation at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 1305 Highland Ave., NEEDHAM, on Friday, January 31, from 9-10am, followed by a Funeral Mass in Mary Immaculate of Lourdes Church, Newton Upper Falls, at 10:30am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Interment in Newton Cemetery. For online guestbook, gfdoherty.com George F. Doherty & Sons Needham 781 444 0687