Obituary: Kenneth E. Polizzo, 76, of Wallingford

WALLINGFORD, CT — (From Wallingford Funeral Home): Kenneth E. Polizzo, 76, of Wallingford, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 21, 2022, at the West Haven V.A. Medical Center with his beloved wife holding his hand, Karen (Ramsey) Polizzo. He was surrounded by his family – the most important thing he cherished.

Ken was born in Philadelphia, PA, June 13, 1945. He grew up on Long Island with his mother, Betty (Greenwood) Polizzo and father, the late Nicholas “Chip” Polizzo of Northport, NY. Growing up with his two brothers, Jimmy and Bobby, he spent much of his free time boating, water skiing and getting into trouble with his brothers. In high school, Ken was an avid soccer player and wrestler.

After his high school graduation (Northport High), he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1963 specializing in cockpit electronics at Loring Air Force base (Caribou, ME). Upon his honorable discharge, he worked at Grumman Aircraft on Long Island.

Following his work with the military, Ken was admitted to Union College in Kentucky and ultimately graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Miami University of Ohio with distinction. Ken continued to grow his education and went on to achieve his Master’s degree in Guidance & Counseling and his sixth Year in School Administration from Southern Connecticut State University.

Ken moved to Wallingford in 1970 and worked in the Wallingford school system for over 30 years. He taught Social Studies at Lyman Hall and Alternative Education at Sheehan High School. He was the Men’s Varsity Soccer Coach at Lyman Hall during his time there. Ken spent the majority of his career as the Vice Principal at Dag Hammarskjold, retiring from this role in 2002. He was most fond of the colleagues and life-long relationships he built throughout his years in education. He loved working with young students and was known as a genuine individual and leader.

Ken was a huge personality in town. Many folks will remember him for his proud knowledge of antique car restoration, home renovation with his business partner and close friend, Myran Gapski or simply bumping into him at Stop & Shop. He was an avid golfer who loved playing with friends and other educators. He had a fantastic sense of humor and truly lived his life with no regrets – he could make you laugh so hard it hurt! He was proud of his two boys and three grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with his family, brothers and friends. He will be sorely missed by his family and those who knew him best.

In addition to his loving wife Karen, he is survived by his two sons, Ryan and wife Lea, Gavin Polizzo and wife Robyn, along with his grandchildren, Declan, Piper, and Brooks. He is further survived by his mother, Betty Polizzo, siblings, James Polizzo (Ann), Robert Polizzo (Lorraine) and many nieces and nephews. He is additionally survived by his extended Ohio family of relatives.

Lastly, Ken always loved his friends who were like family – The Corbett’s, The Gapski’s, The Gilmore’s, The Armitage’s, The Prestegard’s, The Ivers’, The Tagliatela’s, The Champagne’s, The Thompson’s, Rev. Clayton Miller and Robert Clasby.

Ken’s family will receive relatives and friends in The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main St. Ext., on Monday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory may be sent to the Wallingford Animal Shelter (WallingfordAnimalControl.com) and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Wallingford Funeral Home here.