August 15, 1932 – August 02, 2024

John Paul Cagnetta went home to take his place in Heaven on August 2nd, 2024, passing peacefully just two weeks shy of his ninety-second birthday.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, John met his wife of 69 years, Rena (Ginocchio), at a dance while he was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Brooklyn Polytechnic. After their marriage, the couple moved to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where John trained as a nuclear engineer as part of the Atoms for Peace Program. John served in the US Army, achieving the rank of Captain, and was immensely proud of his service to his country.

Following his military service, John and Rena returned to Brooklyn, where John earned his doctorate in Chemical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of New York. He then accepted a position at Northeast Utilities in Connecticut, eventually settling in Wethersfield where they raised their family. John rose to the position of Senior Vice President and attended the Harvard University Advanced Management Program. After retiring from Northeast Utilities, John became the Dean of the School of Engineering at the University of Hartford. His passion for academics led him to serve as the President of the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering.

Despite his professional achievements, John cherished his roles as Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend above all. His love, wisdom, and kindness touched the lives of everyone who knew him. Often described as the “consummate gentleman,” John was soft-spoken, humble, and optimistic. He mentored many individuals, fostering personal relationships and making others feel valued and important. His quiet strength, faith in God, and love for family and country inspired many to follow his example.

John enjoyed an active lifestyle, playing golf, skiing, and traveling extensively. In their retirement years, John and Rena resided in Vero Beach, Florida, where he exercised regularly until nearly ninety.

John is survived by his beloved wife Rena, their three children, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Sonata Senior Living, Garden View Health and Rehabilitation, and VNA Hospice of Vero Beach for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice Foundation Inc. at www.vnatc.org.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

Condolences

The Wardwells – Friends
August 5, 2024, 5:13 pm
“He truly was a gentleman and a scholar. He was always interested in what you had to say. We feel blessed to have known him.”

Mimi Cagnetta
August 6, 2024, 2:26 am
“My thoughts and cares are with you. So sorry for your loss.”

Mary Tellis Nayak – Friend of Son
August 6, 2024, 6:09 am
“John, what a beautiful tribute to your father. You were very fortunate to have such an amazing example in your life. I feel your pain. Remember, ‘Grief is the price of love.’”

Donna Bouffard – Friend
August 6, 2024, 10:06 am
“Thinking of all of you. So sorry for your loss.”