Clarence Joseph Socia Jr.'s Obituary
Clarence J. Socia, ag 95, known to all his friends as "Bud," passed away at his home February 3, 2024. He is survived by his wife Elaine Peterson, two daughters Sherrie and Sheila Socia and his son Mike Nestico.
He was a man who believed in living life to its fullest and that he did.
Bud was born and raised in Syracuse, New York, where he was married to the late Betty Socia. While in Syracuse he was involved in his father's auto finishing business. One business was never enough for him. He successfully created and ran six businesses before he decided to buy a golf course in Florida. He left Syracuse with his wife and two daughters, sold his businesses, and came to Lakeland.
The golf course was Skyview Golf & Country Club and as it became more successful, he branched out and built Wedgewood Golf & Country Club. After some years a piece of land became available on the northside of Lakeland. He decided to sell his two courses and build a golf course community off duff road that became known as Huntington Hills Golf & Country Club. After the golf course was built, he formed a construction company called Socia homes and built the 400+ homes that surround the golf course. Enjoying the construction business, he branched out, developed, and built the homes at Huntington Ridge and many of the homes at Huntington Summit. During these years he was married to the late Dolores Socia.
While these endeavors were going forward, an opportunity to buy a bowling center in Lakeland came about and he decided to enter the bowling and lounge business. After purchasing Orange Bowl Lanes and The Lounge known as “Luckys”, he purchased Countryside Lanes of Clearwater and Tarpon Lanes in Tarpon Springs.
Although his businesses were very important to him, the internet entered his life, and he developed a stock portfolio in on-line trading which captivated him.
The other side of Bud Socia was that he was a very social person. He loved his lounges and all the friends he made. He always said he may not be here for a long time, but he was here for a good time. His favorite saying was "Isn't life terrific!"
As it turned out, he was here for a long time and a good time.
His last endeavor was to form the Socia Foundation where he channeled donations to many charities. His favorite charities were St. Jude, Shriners for children, Humane Societies, Southwestern Guide Dogs and Toys for Tots.
No service is planned but donations may be made to some of his favorite charities.
What’s your fondest memory of Clarence?
What’s a lesson you learned from Clarence?
Share a story where Clarence's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Clarence you’ll never forget.
How did Clarence make you smile?