John Christopher LaPenna

John C. LaPenna, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025 after a short, difficult battle with cancer which he fought valiantly. He was beloved son of Loretta (Santillo) LaPenna and the late Anthony M. LaPenna Jr. John was born August 4, 1970, only minutes after his identical twin Christopher. Along with his mother and Chris, he is survived by brothers, Tony, Jay, and Matt (Ashawnta Jackson), and sisters Noel (Eric) Mills, Danielle (Billy) O'Malley and Lisa (Chris) Jensen. His many nieces and nephews, Ant (Ingrid) Notaro, Allie Notaro, TJ Jensen, Brendan (Talore) LaPenna, Dan Jensen, Cassidy LaPenna, Bobby (Susy) Jensen, Claudia (Warren) Bickers, "Jibbers" Jensen, Connor O'Malley, Ryan O'Malley, Kaitlin O'Malley, Oliver Mills, Zoe, Domenic and Victoria. They were all deeply loved by "Dude John" who was always proud of them. He was an uncle, friend and mentor to them. John will also be sorely missed by friends Carlos, Jeff and Lynn. John grew up in Wallingford, CT, he was a graduate of Sheehan High School and attended Shepherd College before moving to the D.C. area to further his career in IT with the Marriott Corporation. He worked there for 30 years where he travelled extensively throughout the US and Canada. He was most recently employed at Tanager Inc, an IT company based in the area. They were an incredible support to John during his illness and showed compassion towards him and his family. This was recently shared through Tanager: "John was an outstanding person and an exceptionally kind and considerate soul. He would always do anything for anyone and was willing to help wherever he could. He was such a hard worker, and we will all miss his positivity". These words describe John in his life outside of work as well. John loved hockey (Go Caps!), football (Hail to the Redskins), and the NY Yankees. He enjoyed attending games with his friends and family and often brought a niece or a nephew along. When he wasn't able to see them in person, he would watch them at home or at a sports bar with his close friends or siblings. He loved music and going to concerts with his brothers. Our hearts ache with the loss of a deeply loved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. Though John's time here was short, he will be remembered for the joy and laughter he brought to all those who knew him. John's family will receive relatives and friends in The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 North Main St. Ext., Wallingford, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 10am to 12pm. A funeral service will begin at 12pm in the funeral home. Interment will be private. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.