Patrick A. Labella

Patrick A. LaBella, 81, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2024 surrounded by his family. Patrick was born on May 31, 1942, in Port Chester, NY to the late Andrew LaBella, Mary Durante and Joseph Durante. Patrick was predeceased by his wife of 49 years JoAnne J. LaBella. He was a graduate of Rider University where he was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity and earned a BS in Business. Patrick started his career working in the cosmetic field for Warner Lambert and Alberto-Culver where he held positions of Regional Sales Director for New England. Patrick owned and operated several small businesses in Fairfield, CT including the appropriately named LaBella’s Bike Shop which became a staple in the Fairfield community, The Soundview Restaurant at Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course, and Jo-Jo’s News Stop. Later in life, Patrick worked at the H. Smith Richardson and Longshore golf courses.

Since moving to Fairfield in 1972, Patrick was an active member of the community. He joined the H. Smith Richardson Golf Club upon its opening, holding positions of Men’s Club President, Tournament Director, Junior Golf Director and being a member of the Golf Scholarship Committee and Golf Commission. In 2012, Patrick was the recipient of the distinguished Lou Pinteck Service Award for his contributions and received a brick for his service that is displayed in the Lou Pinteck Patio behind the 1st tee. Patrick was also actively involved in the Fairfield PTA, Fairfield Indian Guides, Police Athletic League, Fairfield National Little League, Fairfield National Babe Ruth and Fairfield Senior Babe Ruth volunteering his time as coach, manager, President and sponsor.

Of all Patrick’s accomplishments in life, the ones he was most proud of, defined him as an individual and speak volumes to his character were his 53+ year love affair with his wife and their 5 children and 12 grandchildren. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, a role model to his children, adoring grandfather and a protective loyal friend.

In addition to his wife, Patrick is predeceased by his grandson, Gavin Michael LaBella, his brother Frank Durante, his in-laws John and Anne Jingoli. He is survived by his children Patrick (Nicole), Christopher (Sara), Michael (Suzanne), Peter (Erin), Andrea (Jerry), his grandchildren Sophie, Trey, Andrew, Colin, Gia, Mia, Christian, Lucca, Avery, Maris and Grace, several nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, colleagues and dear family friends Harold & Jeanne Purdy and Ralph & Helen Butera who love him dearly and will miss the comfort of his presence.

A wake will held on Tuesday, January 9 from 5-8 PM at Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 S. Benson Rd., Fairfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday January 10 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 545 Stratfield Road, Fairfield.  Interment will be private.