Louise Emily (Letsch) Panulla, age 101 of Seymour, beloved wife of Matthew Panulla, entered peaceful rest on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 in her home surrounded by family. Born in Fairfield on June 23, 1923, she was a daughter of the late William and Ruby (Hemmingway) Letsch.
A retired inspector for Harvey Hubbell, Louise was full of life well into her 90’s and loved spending time with friends and family, especially going to dinner with her love of sixty years, Matt.
Louise was a hardworking woman who spent many years in the South Pine Creek Beach area in Fairfield. She raised her three children in a home she literally helped to build and maintain, including shoveling snow from her road which was not town maintained. Although yellow mini roses were her favorite, her love of gardening shined through in her beautiful tulip bed and homemade ketchup from her vegetable gardens. During the holidays, we all enjoyed her hot cherry peppers, pickled veggies, and handmade chocolate covered cherries soaked in Southern Comfort.
Louise was always available for those who needed her, and she looked forward to all the times babysitting her grandchildren and great grandchildren. A thorough family planner, Louise would always dedicate a full day of activities planned for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren creating wonderful memories. She enjoyed watching her hummingbirds in the backyard and listening to Polka music with Matt.
Louise led by example and followed her heart. She was a great help to others and there to give a lending hand. Whether it was a small gesture or a larger family function, she would consistently ask what she could do to help. We all knew her motto well, “Many hands make light work.”
Louise was also a fun and feisty, 5 foot woman who had a great sense of humor. She taught her grandchildren how to shoot a 9mm and whistle using her fingers.
Louise also had a deep faith and attended St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Oxford for many years. Family was most important to Louise, and she also loved her canine companions, especially Lady.
In addition to her husband and best friend, Matthew, survivors include her loving daughter, Alice Velky (Paul) adored grandchildren, Colleen Rockwell (Ernie), Colette Kimball (Stu), Lou Hiller, Michael Hiller, and Laurie Hiller; 5 cherished great grandchildren Josh Rockwell, Jakob Kimball, Hannah Kimball, Michael Colombo, and Adriana Colombo, and a great-great granddaughter Harlow Rockwell. Louise was predeceased by her 8 siblings, 2 sons John and Louis Hiller, as well as her grandson, Michael Weber.
