Dr. Joseph Erardi Jr.
1955 - 2025
Dr. Joseph Erardi Jr.
1955 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
Dr. Joseph Erardi Jr. Obituary
Joe was married for 45 years to his wife and best friend Sue. Joe and Sue have two children who have both gone on to be highly successful professional adults. Joseph III, lives in Riverview Florida and Chelsea Ouellette lives in Hinesburg, Vermont with her husband Jason and their two beautiful children Elijah and Amelia.
Joe was raised in Manchester, CT. and attended Manchester Schools. Upon graduating from Manchester High School in 1973, Joe attended Central Connecticut State College and graduated with distinction in 1977 with a health/ physical education degree. Joe played four years of collegiate varsity soccer and was captain of the team his senior year. Joe was a lifelong learner which culminated at the University of Hartford when he ascertained his Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership.
Joe dedicated his life to public service as a teacher, coach, administrator, superintendent, and college professor for 45 years. In 1977 Joe's career started in his hometown as he was recognized for more than a decade as a highly successful teacher/coach. In 1990 Joe was selected as America's Coach of the Year by the Disney Company. In addition, in 1990 Joe was recognized by the CT High School Coaches Association as the Girls' Soccer Coach of the Year.
In 1994 Joe transitioned into administration and served as the principal of both Killingly High School and Rockville High School.
In 2000, Dr. Erardi began what would be the first of four school superintendent positions.
Dr. Erardi was selected as the Bolton Superintendent of Schools in 2000 and held that position until moving forward to Watertown Schools in 2004. After a short, but highly successful tenure in Watertown, Dr. Erardi moved onto one of the state's largest districts, Southington, and served the school community as their instructional leader for seven years. Dr. Erardi ended his career as the Newtown superintendent, arriving to the district post tragedy and managing what some would see as the most complex district in the country.
Dr. Erardi received numerous awards from multiple communities:
• Inducted into the Manchester Sports Hall of Fame
• Inducted into the CT High School Coaches Hall of Fame
• Founder and First President of the CT. Girls Soccer Coaches Association
• Recognized by the Disney Company as America's Coach of the Year
• Recognized as the CT Superintendent of the Year by the CT Superintendents Association
• Recognized as the CT Administrator of the Year by CT PTA Association
• Recognized by both the University of Hartford and Central CT State University as CT's Outstanding Administrator
Dr. Erardi career highlight came when he was selected to represent New England and New York on the Executive Board of the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), the premier association which represents 12,000 school leaders across the country.
All services will be private and only for family members.
Those wishing to recognize Joe may do so by donating to St. Jude’s which 100% of your donation will go to cancer research for children.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Holly
November 1, 2025
Dear Sue, I just saw that Joe had passed on. I am so sorry, and will pray for you and him.
Til' you meet again.
al natelli
July 22, 2025
JE,
You not only touched my life but the lives of my family as well. You were a true leader in every sense of the word. The schools and school districts, the students, faculty, staff, families and legislators were all blessed to have you come into their lives. Southington and Newtown are better places because of you.
To your family, Sue and your children, thank you for sharing your husband and dad with us and me especially. I will always remember him. JE was special. Please keep his memories alive. JE RIP
Much love and peace
Al Natelli
Nicole ricottone
July 7, 2025
It was my pleasure to meet Joe actually during a hurricane here in Florida. I loved his stories and will always have a place for him in my heart. Sorry we never got that Jets pizza Joe. RIP
Evelyn O'Connor
June 11, 2025
Dear Sue and family, I just learned of Joe's passing and feel the need to share my deepest condolences. Met Joe in the Bolton school system where I performed quite a bit of volunteer work, especially with reading incentives. Joe was an incredible hard worker. He recognized me with an incredible volunteer award which so humbled me! I was so shocked to see he had passed. An amazing , hard working person who left an amazing mark in society. My deepest sympathies.
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Dr Barry Messinger
June 8, 2025
I just heard about Joe´s passing. What a loss. My sympathies to Sue and your family. I enjoyed getting to know Joe in Manchester. He was a uniquely talented and resourceful teacher and soccer coach. Plus his accomplishments throughout his career show the giving spirit he had for educating Connecticut students. It was an honor to know and work with Joe.
Barbara Nicholson
May 23, 2025
Ed and I remember Joe so very well, as an outstanding human being. I was a teacher in Manchester, CT and he was a "colleague". More than that, he was the MHS girls' soccer coach, and our daughter, Sarah was among those fortunate to have had his mentoring. He took the girls to Denmark, and showed them how to be great competitors and good sports whether here or abroad. His talents were many.....we are so glad our family crossed paths with him.. and that he is woven into the tapestry of our memories.
James Balcome
May 22, 2025
James and Joy Balcome
Joe was a good man and a good friend. He will be missed.He left a positive impression on all he came in contact with. The world is better because of Joe
Cathy Kapa
May 17, 2025
Thank you , Joe, for being such an inspiration to so many people.
Sending thoughts and prayers to your family.
Cathy (Libbey) Kapa
Mary Granato
May 17, 2025
My deepest condolences on Joe's passing. He was an extraordinary man. I remember the Erardi family from church and especially my friendship with Cathy.
Rest in peace Joe .
Sincerely,
Mary Granato
David Nelson
May 16, 2025
Oh, man. This one really hurts. Joe and I go all the way back to our Little League baseball days in Manchester. My dad, Leo, was a coach for 41 years and Joe presented him with an award when he retired from coaching in 1996. We had fun together both on and off the field. I have plenty of fond memories to recall again and again...and I will. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, his friends and everyone that knew and loved Joe. Rest in peace, my friend.
David Nelson
Santa Catharina, Curacao
Jeremy Visone
May 16, 2025
Dr. Erardi was an exemplary educational leader and colleague. The educational community in CT has lost a true friend and partner. Rest in peace, Joe!
John Leary
May 15, 2025
It was a pleasure to work with you in Southington. I learned a lot from our conversations when you were superintendent of Schools and beyond. May you rest in peace.
Angie Mennie BSN, RN
May 15, 2025
I was lucky enough to meet this man and his lovely wife. I was also lucky enough to take care of him as a nurse. I could have sat with him for hours. Such a kind person. He really listened to you when you spoke, and he had the most amazing memories he shared with me. We shared a lot during his visit, and he had me in tears when he asks me, when do you know", I said Joe when you know you know. I wish I knew him before his battle with cancer. I will not forget his heart and his smile. Remember that breeze when we snuck outside, I will. Bye Joe!
Krista Pisano
May 15, 2025
I worked part time for Southington schools in a grant funded position which had no benefits when I got divorced in 2010. I was sitting at the bus stop with the kids when my cell phone rang. He didn´t even say hello, he said "are you divorced?" When I told him I was in the process he asked "do you and your children have health insurance?" When I told him my children did through their father but I was looking to pay out of pocket for coverage he said "I´m going to the board of ed and I´m getting you insurance."
And he did.
I have long since moved on from that position, but that act of kindness was never forgotten. He didn´t have to do that, but he did so many things for so many people because he knew that investing in your staff is the way to get quality outcomes for the kids in the district. He was simply the best.
The world lost a really really good one.
My sincerest condolences to his family and all who loved him.
Patricia Buell
May 15, 2025
Praying for peace and comfort for the family and many friends and co-workers who have known and appreciated Joe. He had a heart of gold and memories of him will live on in many of the lives he has touched. Such a supportive educator! Rest in peace.
Laurie Kiss
May 13, 2025
Thank you for encouraging a self-conscious, very shy little girl to participate in gym class and sports night. Thank you for remembering me and for remembering my classmates´ names 35 years later. Thank you for kindness. You made a difference.
Eve Davis
May 13, 2025
Dr. Erardi was a truly exceptional educational leader whose lessons extended far beyond the classroom. I will always remember how he brought real-world examples into our discussions, making complex ideas come alive. One lesson that stands out was when he explained how fighter jet pilots have their planes customized to fit them perfectly, ensuring they can perform at their best. He drew a powerful parallel to teaching, reminding us that every child deserves an environment tailored to their unique needs so they can reach their full potential. Dr. Erardi also had us read about those who climbed Mount Everest, emphasizing the importance of relying on one another and the strength found in a supportive community. His wisdom and genuine care for both students and colleagues will stay with me always. We will continue your educational legacy. Kindly, Eve Davis
David Campbell
May 13, 2025
My introduction to Mr. Erardi was at Highland Park. He exposed us to wrestling, one-on-one basketball tournaments, and many other fun pursuits. He sprinkled in a good dose of self-discipline, preparedness, body wellness, positive encouragement, and humor. Turns out, valuable lessons for life, not just a winning recipe for athletics. My deep sympathies to his Family.
John Ramos, Sr.
May 13, 2025
Our most sincere condolences to the Erardi family. May God give Joe eternal rest, and may He bless your hearts with peace.
Joe exemplified servant leadership. His character and commitment will continue to inspire all those he has touched.
Thank you, Joe. And thank you, family, for sharing him with the community and the nation.
John and Jacqueline Ramos
Joseph LeRoy
May 13, 2025
To the Erardi Family,
My thoughts are prayers are with the Erardi family during this difficulty time. Mr. Erardi was an amazing man, mentor, and influence on my personal and professional life. I am forever appreciative of his guidance, support, and friendship.
Thomas T Thresher
May 13, 2025
It's so difficult to accept the passing of someone so special in your life.
Joe and I played soccer together at Central Connecticut. We patrolled the back line together side by side. He was as tough as they come, and had strong leadership qualities. We had many adventures and laughs together during our college days and remained lifetime friends. For Sue, Chelsea, and Joey, my sincere condolences for a wonderful husband and father.
Joe touched many lives and I will never forget him.
Dan Murdzek
May 12, 2025
One of the very few men that I have looked up to and admired. He was always an active listener and made people feel important. One of the most sincere people I have known and an amazing leader.
Eugene J Caruso
May 12, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
PARENTS 4 A CHANGE
May 12, 2025
Dr. Erardi was a wonderful man, with a heart bigger than most. He was loved, adored and respected by all the families from PARENTS 4 A CHANGE, Southington. As a new superintendent, he jumped in with both feet to address community concerns about drug issues, meeting with parents, addicts, community leaders - to make a difference! We are all forever grateful to this great man for his leadership and support!
Patrick Collet
May 12, 2025
It is with a heavy heart that I learned of Joe's passing. Joe and I go back to the early 1970's in Manchester, and our friendship continued for over four decades. We played town sports together, coached our kids, coached high school soccer. and founded and served together on the CT Girls' Soccer Coaches Association Executive Board. Joe was an extremely motivated and focused individual who always strived to excel. His legacy is a testimonial to that fact. My deepest sympathy and prayers go to the extended Erardi family. Patrick Collet Manchester, CT
Ken and Michelle Shannon
May 12, 2025
Our most sincere condolences to Joe's family. Ken worked with him at Killingly High School, where he was so highly respected. He took a personal interest in helping everyone, and cared for his staff. When Ken was seriously injured in an accident and was in ICU in Worcester, Joe went to see him. Unfortunately, only family could visit, and Ken was unconscious. Joe told them he was his brother, so he could check in on him himself! So kind and supportive in every way. Please know that he was truly missed in our community when he moved on, but we all knew he was doing great things for more people. His passing is a huge loss for you, but also for the world, as we need more Joe Erardis. Thank you for sharing him for as long as you did.
Ken and Michelle Shannon
Isabelle
May 12, 2025
Our condolences to his family and friends. We were lucky enough to have him as our superintendent in Newtown. His empathy and kindness will always be remembered. May he rest in peace.
Kelly Wynn Burns
May 12, 2025
Mr. Erardi was my 6th-grade Buckley Elementary Gym teacher in 1978! What a fun teacher. He always had a smile on his face and encouraged us all to do better.
My sister, Nancy, had him as her MHS soccer coach and loved him.
I have been an art teacher in the Manchester School district for 33 years and can honestly say he is a legend for our district. I am honored to have known him.
My deepest condolences to the Erardi family at this difficult time.
Kelly Wynn Burns
Dr. Jason McKinnon
May 12, 2025
I never had the honor to work with Dr. Eradi. I met him later in his professional career when he was a search consultant for Superintendent positions in Connecticut. He personally found a professional home for me and so many of my colleagues. I will remember his kindness, calm demeanor, networking skills, educational vision, and love for leadership. We have lost a giant in the educational community. My condolences to the Eradi family.
Dean Barnes
May 12, 2025
Dr. Joe was an example professionally and personally. Working with him in Southington while with NBT Bus company as the manager we often had interactions which was not normal as a contractor. Joe was just that type of a leader. You lead by example. What Superintendent has an open door policy to the community at his office at 6:00 a.m. at the BOE every morning or giving out his personal cell phone? He did! We talked over every snow storm determination at 4:00 a.m. to close or what was our plan. If parents concerns of bussing we would review the matter and create the best solution. He was just a wonderful guy to work with that no matter the topic I left the call or his presence feeling positive. You knew you where appreciated by him. It would be nothing to have him stop at my office as a bus contractor and walk in to just check in on me and my staff, just not heard of! When I was looking to change careers paths he wrote me a letter of recommendation that I still have to this day. His family was his life and light as he would often speak of them. The students and staff where is drive to be the best at everything he did for everyone.
When he left Southington we were all saddened but everything has a season. Newtown needed his HEART and LOVE for their season.
Dr. E. You will never know the lives you touched and encouraged to just be BETTER. Rest in your rewards as Heaven is home now.
David Brower
May 12, 2025
Sue,
So very sorry for your loss. I first meet Joe working at Stop and Shop in Manchester and we became friends. He was a great help to my family getting jobs in the education field.
He will be missed by all.
Dave Brower
Paul Mangiafico
May 12, 2025
Very good man and Supt!
Brian Stranieri
May 12, 2025
Dr. Joseph Erardi, my dear friend Joe,
Today, I honor the memory of a man who was not just my former boss, but one of my greatest mentors- and human beings- I have ever known.
Dr. Erardi, Joe, led with wisdom, with integrity, with loyalty and with an unwavering commitment to those he worked with.
I had the privilege of working under Dr. Erardi's guidance, and what started as a professional relationship quickly became one of the most influential mentorship of my life.
Joe had the rare gift of seeing potential in people before they saw it in themselves. He challenged me, encouraged me, and believed in me during moments when I doubted myself.
Cancer may have taken his life, but it could never take his spirit. Even through his illness, Joe faced each day with courage, grace and that familiar spark of determination that inspired everyone around him. He showed us all what strength truly looks like- not just physical strength but the strength of character, of kindness, of humility.
I carry his wisdom with me every day.
His values live on in the way I approach life and people. And while the pain of his absence is sharp, the impact he made on me is deeper still.
He made the world-and my world-a better place.
Dr. Erardi, Joe, rest in peace knowing that your legacy lives on in all of us who had the honor to know you.
Sue, Chelsea, Joey and family.
My sincerest condolences on the loss of an AMAZING husband, father, and grandfather. He loved you all dearly, and will forever be your Angel in all your future years.
God Bless you all!
Brian Stranieri
Tracy Marshall
May 12, 2025
Joe was my high school soccer coach at Manchester high school. In 1985 he took us to Denmark to play. As an adult when I moved to Florida I called him when I was uncertain if the move was right and he talked me off that ledge. I have been here ever since. He was such a strong voice/force in my life and shaped me to be the person I am today as I am sure he did for countless others. He will be missed so much but had such a full life of helping others. Thank you so much for being such a wonderful person. Tracy Johnson(Marshall)
Steve Rioux
May 12, 2025
Joe was an especially kind person. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time. With sympathy, Steve Rioux
Susan Lang
May 11, 2025
Joe Erardi was exactly what Newtown needed after our tragedy, and we were so lucky he was there for us. His compassion for the families, and for the staff...for our entire Newtown community...was instrumental in our collective healing. He definitely left his mark.
To his family, may you find peace in your memories. I send you my deepest condolences.
Susan Lang
Newtown Middle School
Andriana Donlon
May 11, 2025
Dr. Erardi always spoke so highly of his family, it was so obvious you were his proudest accomplishment in life. He taught us so much in our classes together but, the one thing he taught us the most was to hold our family close and that time is short. I will always remember those words, best advice. Thank you Dr. Erardi.
Alan Beitman
May 11, 2025
Sue, Chelsea, Joey, I am so sorry for the passing of Joe. He was always thinking and doing for others. He will be missed.
Alan Beitman
Nathan Quesnel
May 11, 2025
Thoughts and prayers with the family in this time of loss. Joe was a special man and a good friend. I always appreciated his friendship and kindness to me. He will be missed. Rest in Peace Joe-Nate Quesnel
Frank Sippy
May 11, 2025
Joe was a good friend and colleague, a gentleman and an advocate for children. My condolences go out to the Erardi Family.
Frank Sippy
Perri Murdica
May 11, 2025
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family on the loss of this wonderful man.
"Dr. E." was an incredibly genuine human and mentor. His smile and humor were contagious. He taught a masterclass anytime you were with him. A true mentor who believed in you and pushed you to higher levels than you thought possible. He was always there to give the right amount of encouragement for your success in those times of self-doubt.
I hope the incredible family behind this very successful and kind man is able to find comfort in all of their special memories. I will keep the laughter, the joys of success, the guidance, and the care and concern he shared close to my heart.
He truly made a difference in my career and in my life. Thank you, Dr. E., for all you gave of yourself in a life that was too short...
Perri Murdica
Jennifer Barbieri
May 11, 2025
Rest in peace Dr. Erardi You made a difference in my life, as I know you did to many others, I will never forget you and what you did for me.
Lorrie Rodrigue
May 11, 2025
My thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Joe Erardi's family at this difficult time. Dr. Erardi meant so much to many of the students, staff and families in Newtown. Personally, his unyielding support of my role as a leader will remain close to my heart. We all have fond memories of Joe's strength, compassion, and his ability to support the school community with sensitivity.
David Monti
May 11, 2025
Great leader. Sorry for your loss.
David Monti
Daryl Carbone
May 11, 2025
I worked as a school nurse during his time in Bolton. His kindness, compassion and commitment to his students was awesome. My heart is with his family at this time.
Gael Lynch
May 10, 2025
Thank you, Dr. Erardi, for your courage and strength in leading all of us, teachers, administrators, parents and kids alike through the most unimaginable times in Newtown. Your constant encouragement and kindness, especially to the parents who suffered the greatest loss of all, will never be forgotten.
Karyn Holden
May 10, 2025
My condolences to Dr. Erardi´s family. I am so grateful for all he did for my children and family and for the Newtown community when he served as superintendent of the Newtown Public Schools. He led with strength, compassion, dedication and he was exactly what we needed after the tragedy at Sandy Hook School.
Karen Cordero
May 10, 2025
You were a wonderful, thoughtful and very caring part of our Bolton Community! You will be missed! Karen Cordero
Laurie Miller
May 10, 2025
Sue, Thinking of you and the kids. Your love for each other was inspiring. Praying you find some comfort in the memories.
Karen Bergin
May 10, 2025
Simply a Prince. One of the finest educators, mentors, and friends I have known.
Suzanne Martineau
May 10, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Eradi was an exceptional educator. He made my high school time at MHS more bearable because he was there. He would listen to us students and help anyway he could.
Jill Notar-Francesco
May 10, 2025
Dr. Erardi was a masterful educational leader. I was blessed to be an elected member of the Board of Education in Southington under his administration. He skillfully and successfully guided the district, providing professional development growth opportunities for all, even including members of the BOE, taking our district to new levels. I appreciated him as an educational and business leader and lamented his departure to Newton which desperately needed his stable wisdom and guidance. Deepest condolences to the Erardi family who should embrace all his praise and accolades. No one as accomplished as he could have done so successfully without a strong support system behind him. Rest in peace, JV.
Mark Olsen
May 10, 2025
Like a light in the forest
Like leaves that blow away
Simply the best principal
Of my Rockville High career
Missed by all but especially family
Mists of time; shadows never forgotten.
Sharon Rickard
May 10, 2025
Please accept my sincere condolences!
Joe and I worked together on the playgrounds in Manchester beginning in the late 60´s. We had so many connections over the years. Through our children and our professions.
Payers for you, Sue and your children!
Vicki P
May 10, 2025
Mr Erardi loved what he did, and the boys and girls K through 6 grade at Buckley school loved him. Prayers to his family and all you have gone through the past few years. He was so special to so many.
Duffy Caplinger
May 10, 2025
Amazing person one of the few people I met in my childhood that truly just wanted to make everyone who crossed his path be the best them they can be. He was always there to advocate for students and never judged children for their choices and mistakes only offered what help he could even when it wasn´t always immediately appreciated. People like him are rare and he will be missed.
Laurie Smith Ernst
May 10, 2025
One of the best! Every memory from Buckley Elementary through Manchester High he was dedicated and loved. I truly cherish my memories of him! My condolences to the Erardi Family.
Dave Morency
May 10, 2025
To the entire Erardi family my heartfelt condolences.
I first met Joe when he was at CCSC back in 1974 when we both lived in Sam May Hall. He and his roommate Axel (the only name he had) lived in the room next to mine. No more than 30 minutes after I moved in Joe organized a bottle rocket war in the hallway. Joe and Axel were the life of the dorm. Later when I worked in the Manchester school system and saw Joe again, we made a pack ...... "what happened at Central stays at Central".
Be at peace Joe, you'll be missed.
Dave
Theresa Westgård
May 10, 2025
One of the best and most influential PE teachers in my life during my years at Buckley Elementary School in Manchester, CT in the 1970´s. Sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time.
Best,
Dr. Theresa (Sombric) Westgård
Thomas Kennison
May 10, 2025
This is awful, awful news. Far too soon. Coach was a great friend of my late Brother, Eddy. They coached girls soccer together at MHS and ECSU, and played on a semi pro soccer team together. Ed and I both looked-up to Coach. I'm devasted to hear of Dr. Joe's passing. Working in education admin today, in my circle of co-workers, Coach was held in high esteem for his leadership. Rest easy, Coach. You will be missed.
Stephanie Patterson
May 10, 2025
Dr Joe was the best leader for Southington. His support of the high school library media center was a welcome gift.
Heather Hohenthal
May 10, 2025
Coach touched the lives of so many and helped all of us to become better athletes and better people. You made us believe that with motivation, hard work, and dedication to each other, we could achieve our goals. You provided so many of us with the finest example of this, as well as the importance of a loving family. God bless you Joe
Terri Downey
May 10, 2025
Dr. Erardi was the best Superintendent I worked with in Watertown. He was compassionate, intelligent, approachable, caring, classy, I could go on and on. My sympathies to his family and friends. So sorry he passed at such a young age. My sincere condolences.
Dave Pestillo
May 10, 2025
Joe was a wonderful person, and I always enjoyed our conversations. We last spoke about a year ago, and I´m so grateful that we had that call. May he rest in peace.
Gabrielle Gleason
May 10, 2025
I want to thank Dr Erardi for his support and caring to all of us at Sandy Hook School during a time we had lost hope. He was a strong leader with love in his heart for the Newtown community. I pray for the Erardi Family during this sad time .
Gabrielle Gleason
Kim Zimmer
May 10, 2025
Sending my deepest sympathy to the Erardi family. Dr. Erardi made his mark on Southington and me personally. He was an amazing administrator; brilliant, kind, and involved. He inspired teachers to grow no matter their years of experience. He was a professional with a big heart. I vividly remember sitting in a meeting where he was determining if I would be able to work as a literacy specialist part time for a few years, to be home with my newborn and young daughters. He approved formally and then winked telling me to do my cartwheels outside. It´s never been forgotten. That time was treasured at home and connected with changes in education as I worked part time.
Linda Krob
May 10, 2025
So very sorry
Linda Krob
Cheryl Crickmore
May 10, 2025
Sue, Joey and Chelsey my heartfelt sympathy and prayers for all of you. Joe was certainly one of a kind in everything he accomplished. He always smiled and had a kind word. I will always remember working for him at MHS and all the compassion, dedication and laughter that was always present. Thoughts and prayers for all of you in this very difficult time.
Betty Anne Keet Morrow
May 10, 2025
Dear Sue and family - I am so very sorry for your loss - Joe has touched so many lives and has left an amazing legacy. He was a wonderful person and I am thankful to have known him.
Paula Bergenty
May 10, 2025
Sue, Joey and Chelsea,
We are so sorry to hear about Joe, one of my favorites with such a great smile. He will be missed but always an inspiration.
Paula and Gary Bergenty
Little River, SC
Charles Esposito
May 10, 2025
I only knew Dr. Erardi a brief time when he was superintendent in Watertown. He was always professional, warm, likable, and honest. The world needs more people like him.
My condolences to his family.
Charles Esposito
Christine Wilford
May 10, 2025
The bravest man in America. He came to Newtown to take care of us in our darkest days. He did so with grace and compassion. He always made me feel heard and supported as a parent. He did what was best for my children any time I asked him to intervene. He was always ready to listen to concerns. Parenting was not easy in the wake of 12/14 and he dealt with us scared, emotionally challenging parents like it was easy. He left his mark on Newtown and helped us heal. Thank you for sharing him with our community. My condolences to all of his family.
Michele Nichols
May 10, 2025
Dr.. Eradi was a wonderful and supportive educator and coach. Available to all who needed extra help in their studies, athletics and overall good guy. He will be missed by all.
David Agrawal
May 9, 2025
To the Erardi family,
I was a student at Rockville High School when Dr. Erardi was principal there. He was the most inspiring school administrator I have ever met. We met monthly over the period of several years where he encouraged me to be an outstanding student, but to also be an active participant in shaping education policy in my school, town and state. He taught me that even a high school kid can speak truth to power by using my voice and experiences to encourage others to make good policy. Now, as university educator myself who does research on how to best design policy, I am grateful for all the sage wisdom and encouragement he granted to me. His service lives on in the many students he influenced.
David Agrawal
Stefanie Harrower Donahue
May 9, 2025
What a gorgeous reflection of all the incredible ways Dr. Erardi shared his light with the world. As a lifelong resident of Manchester, I knew him first as a PE teacher when I was elementary aged. He´d run around, all hyped up, asking us "did you dream about soccer last night?" If you weren´t matching his energy he´d suggest you take a quick nap and dream about soccer, because then you´d be certain to awake ready to play! How silly and fun! These memories are priceless, truly. As I grew he remained this figure of respect and was a well liked educator. I became a teacher myself, and as an adult, his name became commonly mentioned in the education circles, always revered as such an amazing leader; kind, intelligent, strong and very student focused. That´s not an easy legacy to achieve. I appreciate most the positive impact he had on me as a young student. Rest in paradise Dr. Erardi. My deepest condolences to your family.
Megan Bennett
May 9, 2025
Dr. Erardi was a mentor and inspiration. His legacy will live on. In all of his accomplishments, his family was his greatest. I am forever grateful for learning from Dr. Erardi's leadership and humanity.
Michael Siksay
May 9, 2025
My deepest condolences to Joe´s family. In every interaction, he was kind, caring, and always willing to listen. I´m grateful to have known him, and have him serve our kids here in Newtown.
Joseph DePasqua
May 9, 2025
Sue, Chelsea, Joey, I am so sorry for the passing of Joe. He had such a great impact on my life when I moved to Manchester, he always looked out for me. He will be greatly missed.
Betsy Michalik ( Gronda)
May 9, 2025
I remember Joe fondly from my elementary and jr high years. He was always a nice boy and respected and valued other people. So sorry to hear of his passing.
Janice Gabriel
May 9, 2025
Sue and family,
Sending love and light to all of you. Dr Erardi was a special man and wonderful individual. May he rest in peace.
Janice Gabriel
Newtown High School
Carmel moore
May 9, 2025
Amazing human being! Loved this man & enjoyed so many laughs when we worked at MHS. Rest in heavenly peace Joe, and may God comfort Sue, Joey & Chelsea. We will continue our banter & laughs someday! Carmel Moore
Kristin Heckt
May 9, 2025
Dr. Erardi was a wonderful mentor. I am eternally grateful for his guidance, support, and the impact he has had on my journey as a superintendent. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Beth Ozkan
May 9, 2025
My heart breaks for Joe's family and for the multitude of people who were blessed enough to work beside him and to be exposed to the finest man and educator I have ever met. Joe Erardi was unique in so many, many ways. As an educator, he exemplified dedication, intelligence, the ability to inspire others to do their finest work. He was a true leader in every sense and working for Joe meant was such a gift. Joe had the finess to make everyone feel special and capable to achieve at their highest level, whether it was a student, a cafeteria worker, a paraprofessional, a coach a teacher, an administrator, or the maintenance department. He sought out the best in people and he found it. Losing him to Newtown Public Schools was so painful but losing him to cancer is simply heartbreaking.
I will forever be grateful to have had the privilege to work with Joe. He had more of an influence on my professional performance than anyone in my three plus decades in education. He was a gift. He will be sorely missed.
Margie Ustach
May 9, 2025
Sue and family, I´m so very sorry to hear of Joe´s passing. I have so many great memories of CCSU Soccer and of our time at Central. May Joe rest in peace.
Frank DiDonato
May 9, 2025
So sorry to hear this. Dr Erardi had a very distinguished career as a coach and an educator. May he rest in peace.
Diane Haggis
May 9, 2025
Dr. Erardi was a good man, a knowledgeable educator and a man of integrity. I did an internship with him in Southington while working on my doctorate and my Superintendent certification. He was generous with his time and assistance and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to work along side of him during this time.
Dr. Diane Haggis
Jennifer Strychalsky
May 9, 2025
I came to know Dr. Erardi while he was Superintendent in Newtown. He helped me while I was advocating for appropriate services for my daughter. He was attentive, responsive, and caring. My condolences to his family.
Dominick Leva
May 9, 2025
I am so sorry to hear this. My deepest sympathy and prayers for the family.
Maria Druan
May 9, 2025
Dr. Erardi was the Superintendent of Schools in Watertown where my husband Tom and I taught for many years. I have the utmost respect for him as a leader and role model, and I send my heartfelt condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Elizabeth
May 9, 2025
Sending condolences to your family. Dr. Joe was instrumental in helping the Watertown School system and respected by all. He was a friend and confidant of my husband and admired by many. Sending our thoughts and prayers to you all.
Rich Mazzamaro
May 9, 2025
Deepest condolences to the Erardi family. I worked with Dr. Erardi in 2005 when I was first elected to the Watertown Board of Education.
John Walton
May 9, 2025
Very sorry for your loss. My parents always spoke very highly of Dr. Erardi
Lauren Erardi
May 9, 2025
You are in my thoughts, Aunt Sue, Joe, and Chelsea. Uncle Joe was such a kind and generous person - always supportive, always steady, and always ready with a warm smile or quiet encouragement. His presence brought comfort, and his love for all of you was clear in everything he did. He will be missed more than words can say, but his legacy of love and strength will live on in each of you - and in all of us who were lucky enough to know him. I take comfort in imagining Uncle Joe and my Dad together again.
Love always,
Lauren
Steve Hadge
May 9, 2025
So very sorry to hear of Joe's passing. He was a great friend, wonderful educator/coach, and tremendous human being.
Samantha Snowden
May 9, 2025
We´re so sorry for your loss. We know Joe was an extraordinary person, and he will be deeply missed by his loved ones and the community. You and your family are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Nancy Welsh
May 9, 2025
Dear Sue and the entire Erardi family
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Joe ! He was a remarkable man and I will always treasure my memories of him.
Sincerely, Nancy Welsh
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