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Panzano was born Nov. 18, 1924, in South Philadelphia to Vincent and Mary Onerato Panzano. After graduating from South Philadelphia High School for Boys in 1942, he began undergraduate work at West Chester Teacher’s College.
He met Audrey K. Jones and entered the Navy to serve in World War II during his freshman year. Vince served as a pharmacist’s mate aboard the USS Quincy. The ship was the only warship to bombard enemy territory in both the European and Pacific war zones. It saw action in the Normandy invasion and the Battle of Okinawa.
He was awarded four Bronze Stars and the Victory Medal for his service. After the war, Panzao graduated from college and was married. He also earned a masters’ degree in educational administration.
He worked as a teacher and later transitioned to high school administration at Colonial School District in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. In retirement, Panzano volunteered at Montgomery Hospital in Norristown, Pa., for many years. He was also a member of Kiwanis Club of Cape May, N.J., after he and his wife decided to settle there. He spent his final days with his son, Craig, and his family in New Canaan.
Panzano was predeceased by his wife; and a brother, Alex.
He is survived by two sons, Vincent L (Phyllis) and Craig S. (Judi); six grandchildren and a great-grandson.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Nov. 26, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in New Canaan. A reception will follow at Panzano’s home at 139 Southwood Drive in New Canaan. Interment with military honors will be in the spring at Parish Cemetery Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New Canaan YMCA, 564 South Ave., New Canaan, CT 06840, or Waveny Care Network, 3 Farm Road, New Canaan, CT 06840.
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