DR. JOHN JOSEPH REGAN

REGAN, DR. JOHN JOSEPH Dr. John Joseph Regan, formerly of Bethany, a local dentist in the New Haven area for many years, passed away quietly on June 30, 2016, after a short illness but a long and happy life, at the age of 85. “Jack” was born in New Haven to John Joseph Regan Sr and Mary Graves Regan. Tragically, he lost his father at the tender age of 4 years which left a huge void in his young life. In spite of this hardship, John graduated from St. Mary’s High School in New Haven serving as the class president and excelling in athletics. His mind turned toward academics when he attended Providence College and proceeded to graduate from Tufts University School of Dentistry in Boston. He served in the US Army early in his dental career and then opened a private practice in Orange, CT which he later moved to Seymour, CT where he practiced for many years. John and his wife, Norma DeWolf Regan raised a family of seven children, settling in Bethany. John was an avid skier enjoying the mountains of Vermont many winters with his family while summer vacations were spent body surfing with his wife and children at Misquamicut. He loved vegetable gardening, fresh water fishing in Maine, stoking a good fire, and history. He was a self taught pianist who loved to relax playing his favorite melodies. He was a devoted fan of the New York Giants and Boston Red Sox. When he retired, he and Norma spent their golden years traveling across the country. Jack had a wonderful circle of friends who he treasured throughout his life, and always loved a good story and the opportunity to laugh. He is survived by his children Laurie Regan of Waterbury, Beth Beebe (Richard) of Chester, Leslie Cleary (Kevin) of Milford, Mary Sullivan of Warwick, RI, Amy Regan of East Hartford, Alison Regan of Manhattan, and John Regan (Erin) of Cape Coral, Florida. He leaves behind 11 grandchildren, two sisters Lyn Mayer (Gerald) and Mary Petrillo, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Norma in 2006, his brother Joseph Regan this past spring, and his beloved stepfather, William Burleigh. John’s service and burial will be private honoring his wishes for simplicity. Donations can be made to Connecticut Hospice.