BRISTOL — Many a family and friend commented that “the world lost a very cool guy” when John Pandiani passed on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2021 at the age of 75. John was an accomplished social scientist, observing, thinking and writing about everything, and he remained unpretentious throughout his entire life.
He was nationally recognized for his research in the field of mental health. He was deeply curious and therefore a keen observer of the world, whether it was people watching on the street or attending to the way leaves float down the brook.
John taught his children, and many others, the value of hard work and the value of play, often making work seem like play. He was a natural teacher. His children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews share fond memories of how he taught them some pretty unconventional life skills such as how to start a fire, hot wire a car, avoid speed traps or question authority. John loved nothing more than cruising around in his 1961 TR3 convertible and took special delight in getting lost on back roads.
This very special man will be missed by many close and extended family and friends, neighbors and co-workers, and especially by his longtime love, Jill Mackler; his children, Kim Pandiani, Roxanne Rotondaro, and John Pandiani; and grandchildren, Madison and Isabelle Gilley, Sophia Rotondaro, and Jonah Pandiani. 
Donations in memory of John can be made to Project Independence at Elderly Services Inc., P.O. Box 581, Middlebury, VT 05753.◊