John F. Paternella

John F. Paternella was born on May 27, 1947, at Fordham Hospital in The Bronx, NY. His parents, Angelina Anatala and John Paternella, gave birth to their firstborn son. John grew up in the Highbridge section of the Bronx. He went to New York City public schools until attending Roosevelt High School.

John became fascinated with cars at a young age, eager to get his driver's license, which led to his CDL. His passion for driving became a reality, finessing the road with ease as a master tractor-trailer, city bus, and truck driver, and his all-time favorite was his Cadillac Coupe DeVille.

During his late teens, John, who still resided in The Bronx, living the life of a Rolling Stone, met the love of his life… Elia. It was love at first sight! John proposed and was soon blessed to marry Elia on November 22, 1969. Elia is a devoted wife who shared great moments & memories with John. They enjoyed dancing, partying, and gambling with friends and family. Being a part of the extravagant and legendary Studio 54, Playboy Mansion, Copa Cabana, and even The Apollo.

John's other main passion was cooking. His late mother, Angelina, was a chef at heart, making sure she had taught him everything. Every Sunday and on every holiday, he would make sure to say, “The sauce is up, and don't forget the fresh basil in the meatballs”. Without reason, he shared his creations with all his neighbors, friends, and family, who bought us all around the table. Making sure his family never missed a meal and never went without.

John and Elia welcomed their two daughters, Stefanie (Paternella) Pellegrino and, years later, Krystal Paternella. While raising his family in the Allerton section of The Bronx. He knew he had a big role to play in protecting three (3) beautiful women. His presence may have been intimidating due to his deep voice and massive size. His perfectly slicked back hair, not one strain out of place, his firm grip, along with his manicured nails, tracksuits, gold jewelry, and the fragrance of Joop, made you think twice. Deep down, John had a heart of gold and always had a story to tell. His funny slogans always had a meaning behind it all. His favorite quote “If you think long, you think wrong”.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am on Monday, July 20, 2026 at St. Edward the Confessor Church, New Fairfield, CT. Interment will be private.

Friends will be received from 1:00pm - 5:00pm on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury, CT.