Angel L. Pagan, Sr.

Angel L. Pagan, Sr., 81, of Dunkirk, passed away suddenly Saturday morning, Sept. 27, 2025 at home. Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on June 18, 1944, he was the son of the late Flores and Francisca (Torres) Pagan.
He dedicated many years of his life to serving as a truck driver for the Erie County Highway Department, a role he held from 1978 until his retirement in 1996.
Known for his warmth and humor, Angel was a man who enjoyed making others laugh. He was always ready with a joke and had a personable charm that made him easy to befriend. Angel had a passion for music and was an accomplished guitarist, often found playing Spanish melodies that resonated deeply with his heritage.
He was also an avid baseball fan, proudly supporting the New York Yankees. In his leisure time, he enjoyed unwinding with episodes of the TV show “Blue Bloods”. Angel also had a special bond with his dog Daisy, who was a steadfast companion by his side.
Angel is survived by his beloved girlfriend of 18 years Alicia Bantin and her daughter, Ashley Bantin; loving children, Alex Viera, Abe Viera, Maria (Jamie) Hosmer, Anthony Pagan, Carmen (Robert Larkins) Pagan, Patrick (Christina) Pagan, and Angel Pagan, Jr.; many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Iraida Pagan; and many nieces and nephews. Angel is also survived by his Canine Companion, Daisy.
In addition to his parents, Angel is preceded in death by his wife Mercedes (Ortiz) Pagan.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, Oct. 4, 2025 at Sheridan Bay Park at 2 pm in the Pavilion. Arrangements are by the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home; 736 Central Ave., Dunkirk, NY.