A cherished father, grandfather, innovator, teacher, and connector.
Paul Joseph Carnaggio, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born to Anthony James Carnaggio and Esterina Nikoli and was the beloved middle son among five boys, with brothers, Ronald, Stephen, Jerry, and Anthony. A proud graduate of Catonsville Senior High School, Class of 1966, Paul’s journey led him to serve honorably in the United States Army. During his three years of service, he was stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, the U.S. Army Signal Corps Headquarters, and a NATO Base in Bagnoli, Italy, for his final two years.
Paul’s dedication to learning laid the foundation for an impressive career in small electronics and communication systems. He earned an associate’s degree from Catonsville Community College, followed by an electronics vocational education and a bachelor’s degree in electronics and communications from the University of Maryland. He later completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science at Loyola University of Maryland.
Over his decades-long career, Paul’s commitment and leadership left a lasting impact on the electronics industry. He began as a test supervisor at General Instrument in College Park, where he was later promoted to Engineer Manager, excelling in high-tech instrument repair. He then spent 15 successful years at General Radio (later GenRad), serving as Division Sales Manager and specializing in revitalizing sales and marketing operations globally. Ever an innovator and natural communicator, Paul formed relationships with esteemed leaders in the industry, eventually founding Pittsburgh Simulation Corporation and Acceleration Technology System, two startups focused on advancing security through “prevent intrusion” technology.
Paul’s passion for technology extended beyond his career, and he joyfully shared his expertise through teaching. He inspired students in night school classes across Baltimore County, at Western Vocational Technical High School, and at colleges including Pittsburgh Technology Institute, York Technical Institute, and Pennsylvania College of Technology. Even in his final months, Paul taught remotely, sharing his knowledge and investing deeply in the lives of his students, who he genuinely cared about.
Above all, Paul’s greatest joy and dedication in life was his family. He was a proud, devoted father and grandfather who prioritized connecting with his children and grandchildren and sharing stories of their achievements with boundless pride. For the past 16 years, Paul was grateful to share his life with his partner, Susan Capriotti. Together, they cherished travel to North Carolina and Stone Harbor, New Jersey, movie nights, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State Football. Paul delighted in spending time with his seven grandchildren and Susan’s five, all of whom lovingly knew him as “PePaul.” He brought them joy through his enthusiasm for trains and games, leaving memories they will cherish forever.
Paul will be remembered by family and friends for his humor, wisdom, generosity, kindness, guidance, and unwavering love. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, both through his professional accomplishments and the enduring love he shared with his family.
Paul is survived by his three children, Thomas Carnaggio (Robbie), Andrea Fukami (Ryo), Michael Carnaggio (Tia); and loving nephew, Christopher Carnaggio (Erin). In addition, Susan’s children Emma Lebo (Matt) and Nina Capriotti Tharp (Charlie) and their combined 12 grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Kreamer & Lum Funeral Home & Crematory, Jonestown. Public viewing will start at 10 a.m. until the start of the service. Following the service interment will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with military honors.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Lebanon VA Hospital, where Paul received outstanding care for the last 16 years. www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/ referencing General Post Fund (FUND #8101).
