Juan Pagan Rivera Obituary

3/3/1934 - 11/18/2024

Juan Pagan Rivera, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, at Branford Connecticut Hospice. Born in Puerto Rico, Juan moved to New Haven, Connecticut, in 1969, where he built a life deeply rooted in community, culture, and family.

Juan was the proud owner of El Comerio, a restaurant that became a cornerstone for those who shared his love for Puerto Rican cuisine. His passion for food and music was as vibrant as the life he lived.

He married the love of his life, Carmen, with whom he shared an enduring bond that spanned decades. Together, they raised four wonderful children: Luis Angel Pagan, Abigail Pagan, Olga Lydia Pagan, and Victor Orlando Pagan. Juan’s legacy extends further, as he is survived by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored and actively engaged in their lives.

A man of many joys, Juan relished traveling back to his homeland of Puerto Rico, singing, and savoring delicious meals with loved ones. His deep spirituality and devotion to the Catholic faith remained steadfast throughout his life, guiding him to his final moments.

Juan will be dearly missed by his family and the many friends whose lives he touched with his warm smile, kind heart, and generous spirit. His memory will continue to live on through the countless stories, meals, and songs shared in his honor.