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BORN
1931
DIED
2024
Nicholas Cannata Obituary
Nicholas J. Cannata, 93 (although he was aiming for 100 in his draft obituary), of Portland, husband of 65 years to Bianca Russo Cannata, left this world on Sunday, February 4, 2024.
Born January 20, 1931 in Middletown, he was the son of the late Nicholas and Francesca (Giardina) Cannata. Nick was predeceased by his eight older siblings. Two brothers-Emanuel and Sebastian Cannata; and six sisters-Anna Santavenere, Antoinette Spallone, Rose Filette, Helen Marino, Viola Bozzi and Lena Kalita. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Nick served as a corporal in the U.S. Army during the Korean War; he was a member of St. Sebastian Church, a member of the Holy Name Society and a lifetime member of the Forest City Knights of Columbus, Council No. 3. Nick was employed by the Travelers Insurance Company in Hartford for 32 years. He was ordained a Deacon in the Norwich Diocese which spanned over 40 years having served many pastors and clergy while at St. Sebastian Church, retiring in 2005.
Nick lived a long life and said, "my life is a journey with a purpose." If you knew Nick it was all about family, food and phone calls. You may have been "blessed" with a phone call a day or 10 calls a day until you answered. He also enjoyed writing, entertaining and traveling.
Nick loved his wife and his children; daughter Phyllis (David) Murphy of Portland and son Paul (Judy) Cannata of Orange; and his cherished grandchildren Paul, Michael and Timothy Cannata and Emily Murphy; and his cherished granddog Kacey.
Nick's family would like to thank his C.N.A., and all the doctors, nurses and staff who worked with him throughout the years.
Services will be held Friday morning, February 9th all taking place at St. Sebastian Church, Middletown. Calling hour is 9:15-10:00 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. A military burial will be at St. Sebastian Cemetery, Middlefield. In lieu of flowers, donations in Nick's memory may be made to the Portland Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 71, Portland, CT 06480.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nicholas Cannata
Sponsored by MiddletownPress.com.
3 Entries
Rae
February 8, 2024
RIP Nick! From my first week at the 'kings palace' ;), I felt like you and B were more like family.
You lived a long life filled with amazing memories made with beautiful Bea and your amazing family. Thank You for sharing some of those great stories with me! Every day was like a new adventure, and I am grateful to have known you as long as I did. I know one of your favorite things I would say to you was "Thank You for another day at Cannata University".
All of the tips, tricks and life lessons will definately come in handy! May your fighting spirit live in peace amongst the angels. You will be missed! Rae
Lynda Emard (Pattavina)
February 7, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Many fond memories going back to my early Faith Formation at St. Sebastian’s CCD classes and serving at Mass in the 1990s. May perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace.
With deepest sympathy,
Lynda (Pattavina) Emard
Mercy High School: Middletown, CT
February 7, 2024
On behalf of President Alissa DeJonge '95 and the Mercy High School community, we offer our deepest sympathy to Phyllis '81, Emily '24, and to all those who loved your father/grandfather, Nick. Please know that we hold your family very specially in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We are so sorry for your loss.
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