Obituary of Philip A. Ladiana

Philip Ladiana, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2018.

He was the first of his family to be born on Staten Island.  Philip’s mother was pregnant with him as she came from Italy to a new country.

At the age of 18 he joined the United States Army, proud to fight for his country which he loved so dearly.  He served in WWII and fought in Iwo Jima.  His mother would set a plate for him at their dinner table every night while he was in the service.

Once he returned from the war he met the love of his life on Port Richmond Avenue.  She thought he was someone she knew and called out to him.  This started their life story together.  They married at Our Lady of Pity Church and had three daughters in Bulls Head. 

Philip was employed at Proctor and Gamble as a backhoe operator, and worked there for 37 ½ years, before retiring to take care of his wife, Grace.  During his earlier years he played Santa Claus for many years for his Five Star American Legion and also for his grandchildren at P.S. 30.

He dedicated and served his life for others to bring joy, laughter, music and love to all around him.

Philip loved his wife, daughters, son-in-laws, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with all his heart.  He was a faithful husband, father and friend.  Mr. Ladiano was a proud American and an extremely handy person and would help anyone in need.  He left a legacy of service and love and he will be forever missed!

Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home, Inc., 2508 Victory Boulevard, on Saturday, departing at 9 am.  Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 9:30 am at Holy Family R.C. Church.  Interment to follow in Moravian Cemetery.  Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday from 7:00 to 10:00 pm and Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 10:00 pm.