Pamela Antoinette Bordt Occhicone

Pamela Antoinette Bordt Occhicone, of Redding, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, at the age of 77, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on January 1, 1949, in New York, New York, Pamela was the daughter of John and Rose Bordt. She lived a life defined by love and an unwavering devotion to those around her.

Pamela was the beloved wife of Louis Anthony Occhicone. Together for more than 60 years, they shared 57 years of marriage, love, laughter, partnership, and adventure. Together they built a beautiful family, enjoyed traveling, cherished time with friends, and created a lifetime of memories that will be treasured by all who knew them.

Above all else, Pamela was most proud of the family she and Louis brought into this world. She was a devoted mother to Lou Occhicone and his wife Jennifer, Angela McCoy and her husband Jason, and Dr. Krystina Palladino and her husband Nicholas. She was a treasured grandmother—known affectionately as “Meme”—to Kyle, Cole, Patrick, Meghan, Joshua, Tate, and Lucia, and a loving great-grandmother to Royal. Her grandchildren and great-granddaughter were the light of her life. Whether offering advice, lending a helping hand, or simply being present, Pamela always put her family first. 

Pamela is also survived by her beloved sister, Valerie Riecke, as well as many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

Pamela dedicated many years of service in education as a para-professional at both Helen Keller Middle School and Samuel Staples Elementary School in Easton, CT, where her patience, kindness, and caring nature positively impacted countless children and families. Nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with the people she loved most–including her students and colleagues. 

Pamela faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength and resilience. She battled and overcame breast cancer, a milestone she proudly celebrated each year on the anniversary of her recovery. In her later years, she faced Alzheimer’s disease, a devastating illness that gradually took so much from her and ultimately took her from us far too soon. Nonetheless, it never diminished the love she shared with her family or the impact she had on those who knew her. Those who loved Pamela will remember the vibrant, sociable woman she was for so many years—the devoted wife, caring mother, proud Meme, loyal friend, and the life of every gathering. Her family and friends will forever cherish the countless happy memories, laughter, adventures, and moments of love that defined her life long before Alzheimer’s ever touched it.

Family and friends are invited to attend a wake in Pamela’s honor on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Kane Funeral Home at 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield, Connecticut from 2-5 PM. A Funeral Mass celebrating her life will be held at St. Mary’s Church at 55 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield on Monday, June 8, 2026 at 10 AM. Interment will follow the Mass at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Ridgefield, CT, after which family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life.

To honor Pamela’s memory, the family welcomes contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association and Susan G. Komen. These organizations are dedicated to advancing research, support, and hope for families, like Pamela’s, affected by these diseases. Donations may be made through the Alzheimer’s Association - https://www.alz.org/ and Susan G. Komen https://www.komen.org/

Known for her sociable spirit and infectious warmth, Pamela’s legacy lives on in the countless memories she created, the friendships she cherished, and the family she loved so deeply. Pamela taught those closest to her to never miss an opportunity to gather with loved ones, share a laugh, flash a smile, raise a glass, or make everyone feel welcome. Pamela will be profoundly missed and forever remembered–the love she gave so freely will continue to live on.

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