Michael Thomas Panasci

MIDDLEBURY
Michael Thomas Panasci
"Loving husband, father, grandfather, brother
Michael Thomas Panasci, 69, of Middlebury, formerly of Waterbury, entered into the gates of Heaven on Monday, June 27, 2022 in the comfort of Hospice care at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Gloria (Breny) Panasci for 44 years, having met on a "blind-date" as teenagers.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, son-in-law, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend to so many, Michael lived bravely with terminal brain cancer for just over 2 years, supported by his loving family and "friends who became family".
His indomitable character, enduring integrity and wisdom, and lively wit, as well as his allegiance to family, faith, home, and career inspired all who knew him.
Known affectionately as Cool Moe P, Mikey, Fasha, Moe, Diddy Moe, Bro, Cailee, Miguel, Best Cuz, and more, Michael was born in Waterbury, December 20, 1952, son of the late Felix and Rose "Roz" (Fratta) Panasci. Michael grew up in the Lakewood section of Waterbury and moved to Middlebury in 1979. He was a graduate of Crosby High School and the University of New Haven, and enjoyed a fulfilling professional career, beginning at Doc's Motorcycle Parts, and then devoting himself tirelessly to the growth and success of the Al Simmon's Company/Mustang Distributors until his retirement. His work ethic, sense of duty, and incredible capacity to listen to others were unparalleled.
He was a lifelong motorcyclist, a passionate music lover and treasure trove of classic rock trivia, an avid birdwatcher, a history enthusiast, a selflessly caring individual, an incredible husband and father, a doting grandfather, and a quietly devout Catholic. He leaves immeasurably wonderful memories and laughter in the hearts of everyone who was blessed to live in the warmth of his light.
Besides his wife Gloria, he leaves two daughters, Erika Panasci Taylorson and her husband James of Cold Spring, New York, Emily Panasci Rocque and her husband Alex of Fairfield, a brother, Robert "Bob" Panasci and his partner Carla Malagutti of Watertown, a sister, Roslyn "Lynnie" Panasci and her partner Jim D'Angelis of Turlock, CA, a grandson, Bode Michael Bailey Taylorson, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Gustave and Gloria (Varrone) Breny of Naples, FL, and sisters-in-law, Teresa Nadeau and her parter Ned Goebeler, Nancy Keogh and her husband Gerry, and Diane Panasci, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, Joseph Panasci and Felix Panasci.
We are grateful to the incredible Oncology teams at Yale Smilow Cancer Center and the Harold Leever Cancer Center, for their care, guidance, and utmost compassion over these last two years. Thank you also to Tina, Joseph, and Christina for their kindness in caring for Michael over the past two weeks - you have been earth angels.
Arrangements: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 2, 2022, 11:00 a.m. at St. John of the Cross Roman Catholic Church in Middlebury. Burial will be held at a later date. Calling hours will be held Saturday morning from 8:00-10:00 am at Chase Parkway Memorial, The Albini Family Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, Waterbury.
In lieu of flowers or gift baskets, etc., memorial donations may be made in Michael's memory to:
Harold Leever Cancer Center
1075 Chase Parkway
Waterbury, CT 06708
or
The Smilow Cancer Center
25 Park Street
New Haven, CT 06513