Patsy DeGennaro
Patsy “Pat” Anthony DeGennaro of Trumbull, recently of Shelton, died peacefully on May 11, 2022, eight days short of his 96th birthday.
Pat was born May 19, 1926 in Bridgeport, son of the late Mary DeFalco DeGennaro and Anthony DeGennaro.
During W.W. II, just out of Harding High School, in June 1943, Pat enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he was assigned to amphibious transport on the USS Elmore.
Subsequently, he took destroyer training then served on the USS Gregory in the Asian Pacific; a squadron of four destroyers. He said the ship whistle blew when the American flag was raised on Mt. Suribachi in 1945. The Gregory was hit several times during the Battle of Okinawa.
Pat talked about the hardships on board as the ship managed to get back to San Diego on one engine.
Pat reminisced about meeting Joan Crawford and dancing with Bette Davis at a Hollywood canteen in port. He was honorably discharged in 1946.
Pat enlisted again to serve his country in the Korean War. He was on the USS Charles H. Roan until his second honorable discharge in 1952.
He was awarded the American Theatre Medal, Asian Pacific Medal with three stars and the Victory Medal.
The crew of The Gregory became lifelong friends and Pat and his wife, Nancy, were very active in every reunion until her death in 2008.
Pat was proud to have been a part of the brotherhood of sailors who defended our country.
On his return to civilian life, he worked for Avco Corporation in Stratford, retiring as a general supervisor in 1984 after thirty-two years. Pat was a terrific storyteller and a great one for being on or near the water. He and Nancy enjoyed traveling, especially to Maine, and they loved each of their several dogs.
He was a wonderful uncle and his family will miss him.
He is survived by his nephews, Anthony M. Conti of Shelton, Michael F. Conti, Sr., of Carson City, NV, and George R. Koteas and his wife, Bond, of Florida and several great-nieces and nephews. In addition he is survived by his Godson, Fernando Fernandez and his wife, Unora, and their three sons, of Trumbull.
Pat cherished this family and spent many happy times with them over the past decade.
Pat was predeceased by his parents, his wife of 61 years, Anastasia “Nancy” Karpenko, and his sister, Jennie DeGennaro Tolerico. May he rest in peace. Funeral is private. Arrangements through Pistey Funeral Home. Visit www. pisteyfuneralhome.com to express condolences online.