Jose Pantoja

Jose "Cheo" Pantoja, 48, of New Britain, died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 27, 2011 at home. Born in Puerto Rico, he was a new Britain resident for the past 30 years and attended St. Mary Church. He was formerly employed as a machine operator. Surviving are his wife, Alba (Suarez) Pantoja; two daughters, Leslie Pantoja and Liz Pantoja, both of New Britain; his father, Victor Pantoja of Puerto Rico; his sisters and brothers, Betsy, Iris, Marilyn, Carmen , Gustavo, and Victor Manuel ; and three grandchildren, Andrew Almodovar, Anthony Almodovar, and Ethan Ortiz. Funeral services and calling hours will be held Thursday from 5-9 PM and Friday from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at El Shaddai Church, 53 Franklin Sq., New Britain. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.