Stanley Pastore

Stanley (Stan) Pastore of Norwalk, CT passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025 at the age of 99 surrounded by loved ones. As a child, this first generation Italian kid was born and raised in the Bronx by Ralph and Felicia Pastore. When he was not playing stickball in the streets he was doodling on his homework. He was drafted at the age of 18, later serving as an Army sergeant in the Pacific Theater in World War II.Upon returning state-side, it seemed only natural to attend design school on the GI Bill, turning drawing into a career. Stan worked with various design firms in Manhattan for over 40 years as an interior designer. These firms designed hotel lobbies, ballrooms, and law offices, often taking Stan on some exciting travels. In 1950 he married Ella Francolini, the love of his life. Together they created a canvas of love and family. Stan was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ella (Francolini) Pastore and his eldest daughter, Mary Ellen Pastore. He is survived by his children: Peter Pastore (Heidi) of Madison, Connecticut, Paul Pastore (Marylin) of Southbury, Connecticut, James Pastore of Clearwater, Florida, Rosanne Licari (John) of Bethel, Connecticut, and Susanne Holland of Forestdale, Massachusetts, and beloved niece Gloria McKenna of Madison, Connecticut. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Corrinne Ferreira (Lou), Curtis Pastore, Carly Pastore, Angelica Licari, Parker Licari, Brendon Pastore, Gabriella Licari, and Noah Holland, as well as great grandsons Cruz Ferreira and Nico Ferreira and numerous adoring nieces and nephews. Stan's artistic talents continued into his retirement when he discovered the love of watercolor painting through his travels both in Europe and in the United States. Stan won numerous awards in local juried art shows with his art reflecting his appreciation for life in both painting natural and architectural subjects. Stan used bright colors and saturation to inspire others to value his zest for life. Stan was a member of the Roton Point Beach Club as early as the 1960s and then became one of the original owners of the club when it became an association in 1984. On any Sunday morning in the summer, Stan could be found sailing with his daughter Sue on his Hobie Cats across Long Island Sound. Stan spent his winters following the UCONN Women's Basketball team. A city kid by nature, Stan took full advantage of the countryside, learning to ski, play tennis, golf, and generally enjoying the natural beauty of his Norwalk home. Stan was a parishioner of St. Joseph's Parish since moving to Connecticut. Stan was a dedicated father and uncle as well as an adoring Grandpa and Stanpa (great-grandpa). His legacy will live on through the watercolor paintings displayed in every loved one's home. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, June 5th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, norwalk, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated of Friday, June 6th, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church, 85 South Main Street Norwalk. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk. Contributions in Stan's memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.