SGM Philip A. Laino

SGM Philip A. Laino, 83, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and career military man, passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2014, in UMass Hospital. His beloved wife and best friend, Barbara A. (Noonan) Laino, predeceased him in January 2014. They are together in Heaven with their grandson, Matthew P. Laino, who died in 1994. Philip is survived by his loving family, a son, Worcester Fire Department Captain, Paul R. Laino and his wife Cheryl; three daughters, Cynthia M. Laino, Debra S. Bottis, and Cheryl A. Laino, all of Worcester; four adored grandchildren, Jessica, Samantha, Jennifer, and Sean; a sister in law, Joan Noonan of Auburn; several nieces and nephews. He was born in La Junta, Colorado, son of the late, Paolo and Mary (Patrone) Laino. He graduated from La Junta High School, Otero County College, and various Army training programs. Philip retired as Sergeant Major from the United States Army, retiring after serving this great nation for forty-one years. He served during Vietnam and Korea, and was awarded certificates for his dedication to supporting Military Affairs to the Veterans Administration in New York City and for his service in recruiting new soldiers. He also worked at Wyman Gordon Company and Del Signore Construction Company. He was a member of Saint Stephen's Church, The Knights of Columbus Alhambra Council, The East Side Improvement Club, and the Worcester Lodge of Elk's #243. He enjoyed reading, watching the Boston Red Sox, the Denver Broncos, dining out, old western movies, and Wheel of Fortune. He always had a good time when he went to Maine with his family, mostly because of the good restaurants. Philip was extremely proud of his service to the United States and his Italian heritage. It was his family and especially his grandchildren that gave him most happiness and joy. He knew that he and his wife were surrounded by the most precious gifts of love and lights of their livestheir grandkids. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 12, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral will be held on Monday, October 13, from the funeral home with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Saint Stephen's Church, 357 Grafton Street, Worcester. Interment will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, donations in him memory may be made to Veterans Inc., 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 or The Brain Aneurysm Foundation, 269 Hanover Street #3, Hanover, MA 02339 bafound.org.