Panicek, John M.
John M. Panicek, 76, beloved husband to JoAnne (Missavage) Panicek, of Cromwell, proud father, adoring grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 surrounded by his family. John was born on November 26, 1946 in Johnson City, New York to the late Milan and Helen (Maracek) Panicek.
As a Vietnam Army veteran, John proudly served his country as Infantry Platoon Leader and instructor receiving the Bronze Star and Valor in Combat medals. Subsequently he then continued his service in the Army Reserve.
John received his Bachelor's Degree from Ithaca College in Health Administration and Master's Degree in Hospital Administration from the University of Minnesota. He served as Administrator for prestigious hospitals including Valley Medical Center, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Hartford Hospital as Vice President of Administration where he was instrumental in planning the Harry and Helen Gray Cancer Center, and expansion of hemodialysis and outpatient surgery. John was foundational in the current exchange agreement between Hartford Hospital and Quli Hospital of Shandong University, Ji'nan, P.R. China, established in 1990. John continued to the Mayo Clinic as Administrator of St. Mary's and Rochester Methodist hospitals, Backus Hospital as Cancer Center Director, and also as Skilled Nursing facilities Administrator for Traditions Senior Management.
An Eagle Scout, John was deeply committed to preparing youth for success in life and served on the CT Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America as a member of the Board of Trustees, the Executive Board and Volunteer Vice President of Development. Additional Board appointments included the YMCA Camp Jewel, the CT Suicide Prevention Advisory Board, Adjunct American Legion Post 105 Cromwell and American Red Cross. An avid sports fan, favorite teams included the NY Yankees, Minnesota Vikings, NY Giants. However, his passion was watching his twin granddaughter's hockey and lacrosse games. An accomplished photographer and writer, John co-authored "Knocking on Doors That Have Never Known a Key”. John's mantra was “The Circle of Life” which he instilled in his family. He was selfless, caring and would strive to do anything for anyone, especially if it made the world a better place. Above all, John was a family man. He loved his wife of 56 years, his daughter and twin granddaughters more than anything in the world.
Aside from his wife JoAnne, he will be missed by his daughter, Amy Panicek Carlson, her husband Peter, and granddaughters Katherine and Elizabeth Carlson, who affectionately referred to him as “Pop Pop.” Brothers David M. Panicek, M.D. (Jay Finkel, M.D.), Mark Panicek (Kathy), his Brother-in-law, Joseph Missavage (Lorin), nephew and nieces, Alex, Jessica, Emily and Alison Missavage, Kimberly Panicek Trueblood (Ezra Mechaber), Lauren Richards (Kent). His aunt, Rose Meaney, cousins, Leo Meaney, Nancy Knee and special friend, Wen Xiu Han of Ji'nan, P.R. China.
Friends and family may gather from 3:00pm to 5:00pm on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at the Farley-Sullivan Funeral Home, 34 Beaver Road, Wethersfield, CT. A service celebrating John's life will be held immediately following the visitation, in the funeral home at 5:00pm. A private burial will be in the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery at a later date. The family extends special thanks and recognition to Hartford Healthcare Oncology, especially Dr. Timothy Hong, M.D., Kathleen (Katie) Hurley, Elissa Ford, Hartford Healthcare Nurses. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations: Boy Scouts of America CT Rivers Council, American Cancer Society, University of Minnesota.
To leave a condolence, or for further information, please visit Farleysullivan.com