Joaquin R. Cornejo Jr.

Joaquin "Jack" Cornejo, 86, of Hamden, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Balanga, Bataan, Philippines, on November 16, 1938, to the late Joaquin Cornejo and Leonila Robles, Jack was the eldest son of four children. After graduating from Centro Escolar University in Manila, his adventurous spirit led him to the United States in 1966 to build his American dream. In New Haven, a blind date introduced him to Teresita, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful family and recently celebrated 55 years of marriage. For over three decades, Jack served his community as a dedicated Medical Technologist at Yale New Haven Hospital. Outside the hospital, he was a pillar of the local Filipino community. A respected leader, he was an early member and past officer of the Philippine American Association of New Haven, helping to build a welcoming home for many. His deep Catholic faith was a quiet, guiding force, expressed through a memorable pilgrimage he made from Lourdes to Fatima with Teresita. Friends and family knew him to be an avid fan of pro-wrestling, a devoted supporter of boxer Manny Pacquiao, and a car enthusiast with an appreciation for classic Mustangs and BMWs. He loved a good party, especially if dancing and karaoke were involved. His profound connection to his heritage was exemplified by his dedication to the Knights of Rizal, a global organization upholding the ideals of Philippine national hero Jose Rizal. Jack held numerous positions within the organization, and his allegiance was recognized with the conferment of its highest rank: Knight Grand Cross of Rizal (KGCR). Notably, under his leadership, the New Haven Chapter earned the prestigious El Amor Patrio Overseas Excellence Award. The center of Jack's world was his family-his true joy and greatest accomplishment. He leaves a beautiful legacy in his devoted wife, Teresita, and their children: Maricele Riemann and her husband, Charles; Chris Cornejo; and Rebecca Scalesse and her husband, Matthew. He was an adoring grandfather to Kira, Sam, Luke, Emma, Noah, Amelia, Colin, Nevin, and Scarlett, who brought him immeasurable happiness. His quiet strength and unwavering love will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Wednesday, September 24th, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Sisk Brothers Funeral Home, 3105 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, CT 06518. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, September 25th, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 2819 Whitney Avenue, Hamden CT 06518 followed by burial at All Saint's Cemetery 700 Middletown Avenue, North Haven CT 06473.