Richard Joseph Latona's Obituary
RICHARD JOSEPH LATONA, 71
Lakeland - Richard Joseph Latona, 71, passed away from liver cancer on Saturday, May 9, 2015, at home surrounded by family. Richard was born on April 22, 1944, in New York City to Lawrence Latona and Ann Grecco Latona, and grew up in Long Island and Queens.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda Grayson Latona, his daughter Dee-Ann LeBlanc (Rob), his son Richard Edward Latona (Julie), his granddaughters Alexis Latona and Lauren Latona, his sister Francis Ghersi, his brother Lawrence R. Latona, and five nieces and nephews.
In New York City, Richard worked as a licensed funeral director for four years, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He then moved with Linda and their children to upstate New York for five years where they grew Christmas trees and pursued other related enterprises. He and his family moved to Lakeland in 1979 where he worked for over 25 years in the car business, starting as a car salesman, and moving into various management positions. In addition, Richard has been involved in many real estate ventures in Florida and Georgia.
Richard loved fishing and enjoyed spending time in the Englewood area on Florida's west coast, where he and his family owned different properties over the years. He also enjoyed his hunting trips, including ones to BC in Canada, and to Montana, and was an active member of Shepherd Road Presbyterian Church.
Richard’s memorial service will be held at 3pm on Saturday May 16, 2015, at Shepherd Road Presbyterian Church, 1217 Shepherd Road, in Lakeland. A reception will be held afterward in the church Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, Lighthouse Ministries, or Shepherd Road Presbyterian Church.
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