My dear friend and neighbor from North Windham CT has now rejoined his beautiful wife Rusty, parents, brothers , sisters and fellow soldiers. I was honored to have met him at the VA & realized he was my neighbor when I heard him on his morning walks singing at the top of his lungs “IT’S A BEAUTIFUL MORNING”. I would stop in to his home to visit & he’d always be cooking spaghetti sauce or working on his Diamond Painting. He shared some of his WWII experiences with me and the community. He was in local Memorial Day parades and had articles about his time in the war in both newspapers & on TV. He always had a smile on his face and I will always remember that picture of him. Paul, thank you for blessing my life with your friendship. My memory of you brings a smile to my face. God’s speed!
Paul Panagrosso
July 5, 1925 ~ March 29, 2026
Born in:
New Haven, CT
Resided in:
South Portland, ME
Paul Panagrosso, a beloved father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, and proud World War II veteran, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026. Paul lived a century marked by courage, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to family and country.
He was predeceased by his Father, Felice Panagrosso, Mother Vincenza Panagrosso, Sisters Louise Bottino, Mary Mazza and Brothers Ralph, Alfred, Mario, Gerald, and William.
Paul honorably served in the United States Army during World War II, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge and surviving more than five months as a prisoner of war. He was assigned to the anti-tank company of the 424th Infantry Regiment, 106th Infantry Division. His strength, humility, and quiet determination remained defining qualities throughout his long life.
Following his military service, Paul built a long and steady career in retail, working for well‑known stores including Barkers, King Cole, and Caldor’s.
He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Rusty, with whom he shared 55 years of partnership, laughter, and love.
Born in New Haven, CT, Paul also resided in North Windham, Connecticut, Trumbull, Connecticut before settling in South Portland, Maine, where he lived at Sable Lodge. Throughout his lifetime, he formed many meaningful friendships.
Paul leaves behind a devoted family who will forever hold his memory daughter Dawn Panagrosso of Standish, Maine, daughter Deborah Barbiero and her husband Frank of Shelton, Connecticut, son Paul Panagrosso and Steven Flesher of Windham Maine and son Scott Panagrosso and his wife Kristen of Charlotte, North Carolina. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great‑grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. His legacy lives in their lives, their stories, and the values he instilled in them.
A man of deep gratitude and gentle humor, Paul often reflected on his long life with appreciation for the family he loved the friends he made, and the country he served with honor. He will be remembered for his kindness, his remarkable resilience, and the extraordinary journey that shaped him.
Paul greeted each day with a joyful proclamation—shouting “It’s a beautiful morning!” with the gusto of someone profoundly grateful to be alive.
A celebration of Paul’s life will be held on a future date.
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