Joseph A. Latona Sr.
Joseph A. Latona Sr., 86 of Hilliard, OH formerly of Fredonia, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 14, 2024.
Joe was born in Dunkirk, New York on November 18, 1937 the son of Pasquale (Frank) and Sophie (Majkut) Latona. Joe was a graduate of Dunkirk High School and went on to graduate Barber School. Joe built his own barber shop in Dunkirk on Doughty St where he became well known throughout the community. Joe also cut hair at the D&F Plaza for many years. He went on to work for Dunkirk Ice Cream Kraft Foods as well as many other odd jobs until hired at AL TECH STEEL where he would then retire.
Joe was an active member of the Kosciuszko Club (Dog House), Moniuszko (Monnies), and Moose Club. He was also a volunteer fireman with Hose 4 fire station in Dunkirk.
Joe loved marching with Murry Hose 4 Drum and Bugle Corps until 2019. As a young man, he also loved bowling, golfing, playing slow pitch softball, camping and going to the Casino.
Joe went on to marry the love of his life, Janis (Granata) Latona on September 18, 1965. They were married until her passing on October 12, 2012. During their retirement years they enjoyed traveling to The Villages, Florida with “The Gang” from Dunkirk and Fredonia.
Joe leaves behind his three children, Brenda (Paul) Szukala, Laura (Steve) Gilbert, and Joseph (Emily) Latona Jr. Included are his ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Christine (Matt) Disbrow, Michael (Ruth) Szukala, Kevin (Lexi) Szukala, Brittany (Jake) Eckly, Kraig Gilbert, Emily Gilbert, Addison Latona, Rylie Stewart, Jacob Latona and Benny Latona. Caleb, Mason and Cameron Disbrow and baby Eckley due April 2025. As well as nieces and nephews and special family members Linda Granta and Tara Latona.
Preceded in death by his parents Sophie (Majkut) Latona, Pasquale (Frank) Latona, his brothers Pasquale Latona Jr. and Walter Latona, in-laws Mike and Jeanette Granata, Mike and Nancy Coil and Michael Granata.
Friends and family are welcome to attend Calling Hours on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 6-8 p.m. at R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, Inc. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 10 a.m. Interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery.