Joseph M. Pastorella Jr.

Joseph M. Pastorella Jr., age 76, of Hamden, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the loving and devoted husband of 52 years to Mary Ann Pettinicchi Pastorella. Joseph was born in Derby on May 18, 1944, son of the late Joseph M. Pastorella Sr. and Mary Yoia Pastorella. He graduated from Derby High School in 1962, where he loved to play football and was a part of the Derby football team. He joined the Army reserves in August of 1966 during the Vietnam War and completed Radio Teletype Operator training. He was honorably discharged on June 30, 1971. Joseph was employed as a lineman for United Illuminating before changing his career to become a police officer, graduating from the police academy. He served as a police officer for the town of Woodbridge, CT for 12 years. After retiring from the police department and wanting to continue service to his fellow officers, Joseph became the rep./director of the International Brotherhood of Police Officers and the National Association of Government Employees for 10 years. In addition to his wife Mary Ann, Joseph leaves behind to cherish his memory, a daughter, Lisa Hunt (Gregory Walshak) of Seymour, a son, Joseph M. Pastorella III (Susan Greco) of Shelton, granddaughters, Jordan Hunt (Randy Torres), Jessica Hunt (Michael Howe) and Jailyn Hunt, a grandson, Joseph M. Pastorella IV (Nicole Augustitus) and two great granddaughters, Aria Torres and Skylar Howe which he adored, all of Seymour. Joseph enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and whenever they left, he would always show how much he cared by saying “see you later, love ya, bye and be careful.” Joseph also leaves behind his sister, Norma D’Amico of Derby, whom he loved dearly, four nieces and two nephews, Robin Carey (Chuck), Donna Carr, Janet Curtis (Kelly) and Karen Klapcik. He also leaves behind five great nieces and two great- great nieces, all of whom he was very close to. Joseph loved family gatherings, going out to dinner with friends and family, loved to fish, and would often get up early to get the catch of the day. He will be deeply missed by all. A walk-through visitation for family and friends will take place on Wednesday May 19, 2021, from 9:00 to 11:00 am in the chapel of the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. All visitors are required to wear masks and social distance as they walk through, pay their respects and exit without lingering. A funeral service for immediate family will be held followed by military honors and interment in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery in Derby. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joseph’s memory may be made to the Dementia Society of America at www.dementiasociety.org/ donate. To sign Joseph’s guestbook or to share a memory, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.