John Adanti, Sr., 75, of Deep River, died on Aug. 7 after a long battle with cancer. He was the beloved husband and best friend of 54 years to Pamelia (Arnold) Adanti. John was born in New London on Jan. 27, 1937, son of the late Daniel and Marion (Biedrzycki) Adanti. He grew up in Old Saybrook where he lived the childhood stories that he would one day share with his grandchildren. John later married his high school sweetheart, Pamelia Arnold, and moved to Deep River where he would live for the rest of his life.

John was an avid racing fan and enjoyed NASCAR events both live and on television. He could often be seen walking around Deep River and enjoyed good natured banter with the people around town. John was proud of his neighborhood and would go out of his way to make sure that it looked its best. Most of all, he loved being with his friends and family.

Besides his loving wife, he is survived by his children, Carolyn Adanti and her partner Mark Desabrais of Old Saybrook, Connie Lenard and her husband Gary of Windsor, and John L. (Jack) Adanti, Jr. of Essex. He is also survived by his three grandchildren, who brought great joy into his life, Chelsea Madden, Eliott Adanti, and Julia Lenard, and he was delighted to be a great-grandfather to Blake Jones, who always brought him smiles and laughs. In addition, he is survived by his two brothers, Daniel Adanti, Jr. and his wife Barbara of Old Saybrook and Edward Adanti and his wife Leslie, also of Old Saybrook; his sister Donna and her husband Shawn Jacques of Essex; many nieces and nephews; and his brother in spirit, his cousin, Howard Lauridsen of Oregon. He will be sadly missed by his cats, Houdini, Simbalina, and Missy. He was predeceased by his sister Caroline and his brother Arthur.

Graveside services were held on Aug. 18 at Fountain Hill Cemetery, Deep River, followed by a reception at American Legion Post 113 in Old Saybrook.