John J. Panaro

John J. Panaro, a lifelong resident of Norwich, passed away after a brief illness on Monday, January 25, 2021 at the UHS Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City.

Born on December 14, 1937, in Norwich, John was the son of Dominic and Mary (Merlino) Panaro. He was a graduate of Norwich High School and served our nation stateside with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era, then was honorably discharged. John also earned an associate’s degree from Syracuse University. For decades, John worked for the State of New York Labor Department as an employment counselor until his retirement in the 1990’s. John enjoyed following the U.S. stock market, playing the lottery, and working on his computer. He was also very fond of old movies. Later in life he took great pleasure in feeding the birds and squirrels in his yard.

On October 8, 2016, John married his beloved wife, Peggy (Sheldon) Gordon, who survives. He is also survived by his cousins, John J. (Donna) Merlino, of Smyrna, Martin (Kathy) Merlino, of Michigan, and Cathy (Clarence) Sharpe, of North Carolina. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his uncle, John S. Merlino, and his two aunts, Catherine Rumsey and Frances DePierro.

A graveside service for John will take place in the spring at St. Paul’s Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. Contributions in John’s memory may be made to the As I Am Church, 20 S. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815.