Joel T. Papapietro

Joel T. Papapietro, 71 of Plainville, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Bristol Hospital after a lengthy, courageous battle with cancer.

Born on January 31, 1953 in Bristol, CT, son to the late Marion (Meisinger) and Vito Papapietro, Joel embraced life with a joyous spirit and left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Joel's journey was marked by hard work and dedication. For 29 years, he served as a talented electrician, faithfully contributing his skills to EESC. His commitment and expertise were widely recognized, and his retirement in 2014 was met with gratitude and admiration from his colleagues and clients alike. He was pleased to lend a helping hand to anyone who asked for his professional advice and services.

Off the clock, Joel found joy in umpiring for McCabe Waters in Bristol. He relished every moment spent on the field, effortlessly blending his deep knowledge of the game with a genuine love for ensuring fair play and camaraderie among the players. Joel's fair and impartial approach endeared him to all who participated, making him a respected figure in the local sports community.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Joel had a deep passion for craftsmanship. His love for woodworking and creating intricate stained-glass pieces brought beauty and elegance into the lives of those around him. His knack for turning ordinary materials into works of art was undeniable, honoring his legacy as a masterful artist.

But what defined Joel most was his radiant and humble personality. A kind and welcoming man with a heart of gold, he had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel valued and included. Joel's infectious laughter and quick wit filled each room he entered, leaving a lasting impression on all fortunate enough to cross his path. He cherished his family and never missed an opportunity to create lasting memories, especially during their cherished vacations at Fern Lake in New York.

Joel was predeceased by his first wife and mother to his children, Linda Papapietro. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen (O’Dea) Skirvin; his daughters, Donata Dziejma and her former husband, Mike and Sheri Tomchik and her husband, Joe; his son, Tony Papapietro; his granddaughter, Kaylee Papapietro; his step-son, Jesse Skirvin and his wife, Alex; his sister, Susan Papapietro and her husband, Carter;  his brothers, Daniel Papapietro and his wife, Margaret and Jack Papapietro and his partner, Dev; and his lifelong friends, Frank Rossi, Steve Kacynski and his wife, Karen, and Pete Hodgkinson and his wife, Kim; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, colleagues, and friends.

Funeral services in celebration of Joel’s life will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 10 AM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St., Plainville. Burial and committal prayers will follow in Saint Mary Cemetery, Huckleberry Hill Road, Avon. Family and friends are welcome to gather on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 from 6 to 8 PM at the funeral home. Donations in memory of Joel may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org). For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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