Obituary for
Philip Latona
Philip died peacefully on March 25, 2017 in Delray Beach, Florida where he had resided for the past 26 years. Philip was born on November 26, 1929 in Carbondale, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Latona of Pittston, Pennsylvania. Phil is survived by his Sister, Anita Prula. He resided in Pittston until the age of 20 at which time he entered the United States Army. Phil loved his days in the military, serving our country. He always talked about his experiences proudly and to this day stayed in touch weekly with some of his army buddies! A few months before he was deployed to Germany, he met the love of his life, Julia Sticca. At this time Phil was 20 and Julia was 17. They fell in love and corresponded via letters for the next 2 years, writing to each other every day. In 1953, he was discharged, and he proposed to Julia on Valentine's Day. They were married 4 months later on June 27, 1953. Soon after marrying, they moved to Waterbury Connecticut and lived there happily for 38 years. During this time they had 3 children, Christine, Joseph and Philip Jr.
Philip worked in the garment industry for a total of 40 years. He started as a pattern cutter and moved up over the years into higher levels of responsibility. Towards the end of his career, Phil managed over 40 people in a manufacturing facility where they created and produced woman's clothing. His employees always admired and respected Phil for his quick wit and fair management style. When this career ended, Julie and Phil decided to move to sunny South Florida. In 1990 they became retired Floridians. Julie and Phil enjoyed their leisure time with Julie's family, who was local and they spent a lot of time traveling and enjoying the good life. As the years progressed, they became well acquainted with many of their neighbors in Sabal Lakes. They were neighborhood socialites and threw nearly hundreds of dinner parties for close friends and neighbors. As a matter of fact, this was one of Phil's true loves - cooking and feeding his friends! Phil was well loved by his family and friends. He was friendly, kind and good hearted to everyone he met. Our neighborhood won't ever be the same without him. Rest In Peace Phil until we meet again!
