John “Mags” Magnani Jr, 67, of Windsor Locks, CT, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2019 after a long battle with several health issues.
John was predeceased by his father John Magnani and his mother Elizabeth (Sartirana) Magnani. He is survived by his son Jonathan, sister Elaine (Magnani) Labbe her husband Richard, their two sons Rich and Tony, and daughter Nicole (Labbe) Lucas, along with many other cousins, nieces and nephews. John was a loving father, uncle, and friend to many.
After graduating from CCSU, John started his manufacturing career at Lapointe Industries. He last worked as a Senior Buyer for Hamilton Sundstrand, until his health forced him to an early retirement in 2010.
John loved sports, especially baseball and hockey which he played during his youth. He was a member of the team that went on to win the 1965 Little League World Championship. John also loved the town where he grew up, Windsor Locks, particularly the local sports community which he volunteered most of his free time towards. “Mags” was the founder/player for the Indoor Hockey League in 1971. He eventually became President of the IHL a role he served until 1987. During that time period if you didn’t find him playing or running the IHL; you would most likely find him at Riverside Park watching the races. In 1997, when his son Jonathan came of age to play tee ball Mags began coaching and became AAA Administrator/VP for the WLLL. During his coaching career the Swedes team’s dynasty began by winning the season championship from 2002 to 2004. In 2011 he was inducted into the WL Hall of Fame for his contributions to the community in sports. Later in life John spent his free time watching various sports games live and on TV. He was a true NY fan following the Yankees, Rangers hockey and Giants football.
The family would like to thank the staff at St. Francis Hospital and Parkway Pavilion in Enfield, CT for their loving care and support during his final years.
A private “Celebration of Life” ceremony will be announced at a later date for John’s closest friends and family.
John was a wonderful person and a great mentor. I worked with John at LaPointe Industries. He was always helpful, friendly and willing to give of his time and talent. My husband and I have thought of him often over the years. Our condolences to his family. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
We are saddened to read about your loss of Mags.
Once you met him he was someone you remembered..
He was a delightful person to have and we were grateful to have him in the Indoor Hockey League.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your loved one.
Sincerely, Paul and Lois Lodola
Retired President
P.J. Lodola & Sons Inc
Electrical Contractors
John was a true “son of Windsor Locks”. He will be missed. John had a wonderful sense of humor and love of life. While I was principal of Windsor Locks Middle School, John was one of my biggest supporters: something I will always appreciate.
May he Rest In Peace.
Greg Blanchfield
Beautifully said. A wonderful tribute!!!!!!!!!