Obituary for
Joseph Paul Pannitto
Joseph "Joe" Pannitto passed away on November 3, 2017. He was born in the year of the Great Depression, on July 4th, 1929 on Staten Island, New York. He is first generation American.
Joe served in the US Air Force for 20 years, retiring in the grade of Chief Master Sergeant in 1967. He served during the "Berlin Airlift" in 1948 and the occupation of Germany and "The cold War." During his 3rd tour in Germany he served as a technical instructor to the newly formed German Air Force. He was an active member of the Patrick Chief's Group.
His last assignment was at Westover Air Force Base in Chicopee Falls, MA where he met the love of his life, "Peg". They were married for more than 40 years until her passing in 2007. He leaves behind step-daughters Debbie of Duxbury, MA and Susan of Griswold, CT and step-son Byron of Ashfield, MA.
During his military service he earned a Bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland, a Master's degree from the American International College and a second Master's degree from the University of Connecticut. His ambition was to be a special education teacher in the Springfield, MA school system which he was retiring from that position in 1984.
He authored a book, "Take Advantage of Every Situation" in which he outlined his love for America and the great opportunities available to those who apply themselves. He was the sponsor of a scholarship in the name of his late wife, Peg at Eau Gallie High School, which will be continued by his step-daughters. Peg was also an educator, serving in the West Springfield, MA school system.
Burial will be at the National Cemetery in Bourne, MA along side his late wife Peg. Service will be held on November 17th at 11AM at Davis Seawinds Funeral Home, 560 Montreal Avenue, Melbourne. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.
