Anthony Pagano

United States Army Sergeant Anthony Pagano passed away on May 15, 2023 after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer attributed to toxic exposure during deployment.

Pagano was born in Trenton, Michigan, and raised in the nearby town of Flat Rock. His childhood was filled with family vacations to Virginia Beach, one hour of Saturday morning cartoons, and endless hours of outdoor play. Sundays were for church and cherished family dinners. He grew up in a close-knit family where open conversations were encouraged, and they shared everything that brought them joy. From a young age, he loved tinkering with things such as fixing broken items, working on crafts, and experimenting with electronics. He was always good with his hands, and woodworking quickly became his favorite hobby. His family still has a wooden nameplate he proudly carved with his name when he was just eight years old.

Pagano enlisted in the United States Army in October 2007, driven by a desire to leave Michigan and establish his independence. He deeply valued the camaraderie and sense of belonging. His exemplary leadership skills were honed through mentorship, empowering him to guide his own soldiers. Pagano’s service transcended mere occupation; he was a consistently reliable figure to both his subordinates and superiors, available at all times. Even following a cancer diagnosis, his unwavering dedication remained, as he continued to offer support regardless of his personal struggles. He was deeply committed to positive impact, demonstrating to others the existence of supportive and kindhearted individuals.

During his deployment in Afghanistan, Pagano received an Army Commendation Medal for his exceptional service, a recognition given to individuals for their commitment and often unacknowledged contributions. His actions were driven by an innate sense of duty, with recognition being a secondary result rather than his primary goal. Notably, Pagano also earned a Driver and Mechanic badge and found great satisfaction in training personnel on vehicles, even amidst demanding schedules. His dedication to his work consistently brought him fulfillment. Even after long and tiring hours, Pagano’s commitment never wavered; he always returned home with a smile for his wife Lachanae.

Pagano met Lachanae in the field at Fort Carson, both serving in 4BSTB. Lachanae describes Pagano as one of the most selfless people she had ever known—someone who always put others first and never once regretted it. His purpose was to love deeply, create a family, and serve with everything he had. He protected his family until his very last breath. He took a chance on Lachanae, something she thanked him for every day. He was the first to speak to her when she arrived in Colorado, and she was the last to speak to him before he passed. Though the pain of losing him was immense and twelve years felt far too short, Lachanae now understands that he was fulfilled, and so is she. Their love didn’t end when his life did—it continues, strong and everlasting

Lachanae currently resides in Louisiana with their beautiful children, Anthony Jr., Leigha, and Linkin. She loves designing house plans, reading books, creating content, and spending time with her children. She is building an online community to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, emphasize the importance of early detection, and provide support to families going through similar experiences. Lachanae enjoys seeing pieces of their dad flourish in each of her children. Lachanae is truly grateful to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation for lifting the financial burden and allowing her family to focus on healing.

United States Army Sergeant Anthony Pagano is survived by his loving wife, Lachanae and his beautiful children, Anthony Jr., Leigha, Linkin.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Pagano family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.