Paul J. Magnano, fondly known as "Mr. Mags", beloved husband of Louise (Watson) Magnano of East Haddam, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2022 surrounded by family and friends following a long illness.  He was predeceased by his and Louise's son, Michael Magnano, his parents, Salvatore J. and Eleanor V. Magnano, and his siblings.  He is survived by his wife and his three children:  his daughter Lisa Conroy and her husband Shawn of Moodus, Connecticut; his son Brian Magnano and his wife Pamela; his son Scott Magnano and his wife Jennifer of Gilbert, Arizona and grandchildren Matthew, Andrew, Ryker and Teagan.  Paul is also survived by his brother, Salvatore (Joe), aunt, Arlene, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  Paul was also a friend of Bill W.  In addition to his family, Mr. Mags is also survived by a community of loved ones in East Haddam.

Paul was East Haddam's number one sports fan. No matter the sport or level of play, he was cheering loudest in the stands, often to the dismay of the referees.  He was the first to give you a hug after a well-earned victory or to console you after a tough defeat. He and his wife, Louise, graciously opened their home up nearly every weekend when his kids were in high school; providing copious amounts of cookies, soda, french fries, and chips to their friends. It was a safe place to gather, play cards, swim in the pool, shoot hoops, watch movies, and tease one another mercilessly, all in good fun. Everyone was welcome and he made sure you knew you were part of our family.  Paul cherished the memories of these weekly social gatherings throughout his children's youth.

For 37 years Paul dedicated his days to working with his patients at Connecticut Valley Hospital as a Mental Health Worker. In his spare time, he enjoyed participating and volunteering in various organizations in his community.  He was a member of the East Hampton Fire Department, Vice President of the Chapter 105 of the Connecticut State Employees' Association of Middletown, Little League Coach, Vice President of the Little Noises Athletic Booster Club and a member of the Knights of Columbus.  One of Paul's greatest joys was music. As a self-taught guitarist, he loved to share his gift and passion for music with others.  He was a member of St. Bridget of Kildare Church in Moodus and a member of their music ministry for 25 years.  Paul was also a member of various bands in the greater Middletown area which brought him much enjoyment.

Paul also was a man of immense faith. He served as an advisor to the Youth Ministry Antioch Prayer Group in Old Saybrook impacting countless young people, sharing his faith and zest for life.  Another source of enjoyment was vacationing with his family, extended family and friends. His favorite vacations spots were the Cape, Florida and he never turned down an opportunity to visit Las Vegas.  Among Paul's favorite activities (while on vacation and at home) were family outings of miniature golf, playing the penny slots at the casino and watching the UCONN women's and the Connecticut Sun basketball teams.  Paul yearly attended the Freberg Christmas Party, a tradition that spanned his lifetime and held many special memories for him.  He will forever be grateful for all of his family and friends who visited him during his illness.

Paul made Gaylord Specialty Healthcare his final home and he was touched by the care and compassion he received from the staff at all levels while he was living there.  The family is eternally grateful for the loving care he received from the staff at Gaylord Hospital. Paul will also miss his beloved cats, Freddie and Boots (Bootsie).  Donations in Paul's memory can be made to the East Haddam Youth and Family Services and Gaylord Specialty Healthcare.  Calling hours will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown, Connecticut on Monday, October 17, 2022 and the funeral will be held at 9:30 a.m. at St. Bridget of Kildare Church, 75 Moodus Leesville Road, Moodus, Connecticut on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 where family and friends are invited to celebrate his life.