Armand Padula

Armand Padula, 96, of Nokomis, Florida died August 12th, 2026. Formerly of Ithaca, NY of parents Norman and Mary Padula. He attended Ithaca Public Schools and served in the U.S. Maritime Service and the U.S. Navy Reserve. Early employment was a Deputy Sheriff and local industries, but he then decided to pursue academics. He worked as Entomology Experimentalist at Cornell University performing research at the New York State Experiment Station at Geneva, NY and taught genetics and general biology between academic degrees. He was then appointed Lecturer at the University of Maine while earning his doctorate.

He joined FMC Corporation, Agricultural Chemicals Division as Research and Development Entomologist, and later as Manager of Technical Services. As a second career he joined the USDA Pesticide Assessment Staff as Entomologist and Project Leader for reports of studies prepared by teams of university scientists and extension personnel. He was also assigned investigative duties with the Office of the Inspector General. He provided resource information on a broad range of subjects and was a frequent public speaker. He received a number of awards and citations for outstanding performance and retired from federal service in 1997.

He commuted in his personal aircraft as a member of the DPA Flight Group, speculated in real estate and sang solos for concerts and religious ceremonies. Following retirement he sang as a member of the Niagara Retired Men's Service Club Chorus. He was fond of camping trips to the wilderness of northern Canada. He was a dedicated caregiver for his wife during her many years of disabling illness, held membership in the Moose, was an active Sir Knight of Columbus and a regular volunteer for charitable programs. 

He is survived by a son Norman (Sandra) Padula. He is also survived by grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. There are numerous cousins residing in the United States, Canada, Italy, and France. He was predeceased by his wife of 69 years, Gloria Newhart Padula, a daughter Gwen (Anthony) Shannon, a son Ithaca Police Investigator Michael Padula, a grandson Michael D. Padula, and brother John (Mary) Padula.

In accordance with Armand's wishes there will be no visitation, funeral or ceremony. Arrangements are made by Bangs Funeral Home of Ithaca, NY.