Joseph Francis Regan

Born in Rockville, Connecticut on July 4, 1924, he grew up in nearby Tolland. He shared many hysterical and outrageous stories of living on the farm and exploring the woods. Joe was a true blue American, flying as a fighter pilot in WWII and serving in Vietnam. He later became a flight instructor, achieved the rank of Bird Colonel, and retired as an Air Force base vice commander after 33 years of service to his country. After retirement from active service, he worked at Lockheed Martin, in Orlando, Florida, where he contributed to the development of solid rocket fuel.

Joe was a dedicated family man. He and his sweetheart Irene were married for over 70 years until she passed a year and a half ago. As a Boy Scout leader he saw his five sons through to Eagle Scout and he taught all his children how to revive and maintain vehicles. He was particularly proud of his red Barracuda convertible. The family went on many camping trips in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Boundary Waters Canoe Area, and several national parks. Joe fostered a love of the outdoors in his grandchildren, sharing with them the joy of canoeing and a warm sauna at the cabins in Ely, Minnesota. He enjoyed any opportunity to teach someone to water ski, including the friends of his children, grandchildren, and extended family. Joe himself stayed active, last snow skiing at 94 and water skiing until 96. He “got his exercise” working in his yard, tending to his banana trees, and scything the weeds in the lake.

Joe was an intellect – literally a rocket scientist — with a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from Purdue University. He received his BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Connecticut and his Masters in Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan. In his mid-50s, he earned a MBA from the University of Central Florida simply because he wanted one. Joe loved being closely involved with his grandchildren and nurtured their education. He was extremely proud of his great-grandchildren and enjoyed hearing news of their milestones. He was a purposeful pragmatist and made conscious choices to spend his time in ways that would make the most difference. He read about companies and stocks, built computers, and fixed all kinds of things. He was forever curious, eager to learn and try new things.

Joe was a philanthropist who helped many be more secure and gain a toehold up the financial ladder. Citing his military service as key to his educational success, he funded an endowment at the University of Connecticut for veterans pursuing engineering degrees. Joe also augmented his sister Madeline’s gift of historic family property in Tolland to Joshua’s Trust, which is committed to maintaining the natural beauty of the area he so loved as a child. He gave generously of his finances and time to many causes throughout his life.

Joe was a patriarch in the best sense of the word – his strong character, mentorship, and stewardship influenced four generations.

Joe is preceded in death by his wife, Irene; two siblings William and Madeline Regan; and two sons, James and Thomas Regan. He is survived by his children Kathleen, William, Joseph Jr., John (Mary) Regan and Marlene (Wade Jr.) Johnson; grandchildren Wade (Jaclyn) Johnson III, Kendall Johnson, Blake Johnson, Eric Regan, Sarah Regan and William Regan; and great-grandsons Graham and Reid Johnson.

A celebration of his life will be held from 11 am to 1:30 pm on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Baldwin-Fairchild on South Semoran Boulevard/SR 436.

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