Guy F. Pagano

Guy F. Pagano, 81, of Syracuse, passed away Wednesday, June 26, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. Guy was born on September 20, 1937 in Syracuse, son of the late James V. and Catherine (Basil) Pagano. He was a graduate of North High and salutatorian of his class. He held a Master Electrician License and was the owner/operator of Pagano Electric, Inc. He was involved with many local commercial and industrial projects, including businesses and several churches to his credit. Guy was a member of IBEW Local 43 for 40 years before retirement.

Service and music were Guy’s passions as he served as chief electrician’s mate in the Coast Guard Reserve for over 42 years. He loved imparting knowledge and volunteered with Literacy Volunteers, working with several foreign-born adult students learning English.

Guy and his wife, Ellie, met singing in Syracuse Chorale, where he maintained his membership for more than 50 years. Perfecting his spoken Italian with his favorite “compagni di classe” at the Corinthian Club was the highlight of his week. He was a member of the local American Italian Heritage Association and Lakeland Seniors. A yearly get-together with his former St. Peter’s altar boys was an anticipated pleasure every January.

Guy had a vast knowledge of the classics, lyrics of the “old songs,” history, geography and it was impossible to beat him at Jeopardy (a daily ritual with Ellie). His repertoire of jokes and stories, especially those dependent on dialects were his forte. It was a good day when you heard Guy singing opera around the house. He was passionate about all types of recycling and never took a walk without picking something up. Family, friends and reading were especially important in his life.

Guy was predeceased by his brother, Jim; and sister-in-law, Patricia.

Surviving are his wife of 52 years, the former El Nora Zutant; son, Gregory (Christine) Pagano; daughter, Andrea (Rod) Morgan; sister, Rosemarie Bundy; brother, Nick (Marie) Pagano; grandchildren, Amber, Katie, Ivy, Gabi, Ben, Jon and Chris; great-grandchildren, Lillian and Aman; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.

Relatives and friends may call Thursday, August 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, August 16 at 12:30 p.m. in Holy Family Church, 127 Chapel Dr., Syracuse. Guy will be laid to rest in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Literacy CNY, 100 New St., Syracuse, NY 13202 or to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, 1005 N. Glebe Rd., Arlington, VA 22201.