Angelo Perna passed away on July 1, 2020 at age 88 after a battle with lung cancer. He was born on September 15, 1931 in Brooklyn, NY, where he lived for much of his life. Angelo served in the United States Army during the Korean War before he earned BS (’57) and MS (’62) degrees in Chemical Engineering from Clemson University. He went on to earn his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Connecticut in 1967. Dr. Perna joined the faculty of NJIT (then known as Newark College of Engineering) in 1967 where he was a dedicated professor and dean for over 50 years. Angelo was the author of over 110 publications and 120 presentations. He was the recipient of over 80 institutional, national, and international awards for teaching, research, and service. Dr. Perna also served as part of the design team for the Lunar Explorer (Moon Buggy).
Angelo is survived by his wife Pam, whom he met while working at NJIT. He is predeceased by his siblings Phyllis, Frank, Camilla (Millie), Vincent, Frank, John, and Rosemary. He was a proud uncle of 16 nieces and nephews, 20 great-nieces and nephews and 8 great-great nieces and nephews. Angelo will be remembered for his love of family and food and his commitment to education. A private service will be held at Lamonica Memorial Home followed by a private funeral mass at St. Raphael’s Church in Livingston.
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