Obituary for Mr. Peter J. Laterza

FRANKFORT – Mr. Peter J. Laterza, age 67, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, in the comfort and dignity of his home.

Born in Utica on June 29, 1956, Peter was the son of the late Joseph A. Sr., and Dorothy J. (Stratton) Laterza. Peter cherished his early schooling at St. Anthony's Grammar School, where he forged lifelong friendships. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1975.

On September 11, 1982, Peter married the former Laurie L. Militello, embarking on a loving and devoted union of 41 years blessed with wonderful memories.

At one time Peter held a position with Kay Bee Toy and Hobby as a manager at their Utica and Syracuse locations, where he brought joy to countless children with his passion for serving people. He then ventured into the insurance field, holding a position with Prudential Insurance as an insurance agent, following in his father's footsteps. He was known for his friendly demeanor and dedication to his work and clients. He later became a newspaper delivery man for the Utica Observer-Dispatch, a position he was well suited for; he was proud of the many friendships that he made on his routes. Peter was renowned for his friendly demeanor and the deep connections he made in every walk of life, retiring recently to enjoy more cherished moments with his family.

Peter was a loving father and the number one supporter of everything his kids had done and continue to do. Whether it was watching dance competitions, musical theater performances, baseball games, or witnessing the seeds of his caring parenting sprout, he always made sure he was there for Tiffany and Tino. His world truly revolved around his family.

Peter enjoyed spending his free time at Mohawk Automotive, “hanging around the coffee table” making life-long friendships and assisting in keeping the garage clean and tidy. You could also always find him rooting for the New York Yankees alongside his late mother, siblings, and son! Peter found joy in swimming in his pool, and spending quality time with his wife and his dog, Ellie. Peter loved the holidays and was known for his elaborate Christmas decorations, a tradition he held dear, even once postponing surgery to attend to his desire to decorate.

Peter was a member of the Knights of St. John Commandry #385 and a parishioner of St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie; his children and their loves, Tiffany A. Laterza and Todd Schroeder, Jr., and Martino J. "Tino" Laterza and Anna Cornell; sister and brother-in-law, Anne and Kevin Waters; brother and sister-in-law, Joe Laterza, Jr. and Audra (Grant) Laterza; many nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging Jason Waters, and Josh Waters; great-nieces, great-nephews; cousins, especially Peter Marriott; father-in-law, Carl Militello, Sr.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Carl and Angela Militello, Deborah and Richard Semeraro, Anthony and Tonya Militello, and Christina D'Ambro and Wayne Hajdasz. His life was enriched by many wonderful friends who will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Peter’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

As we remember Peter, we cherish the beautiful legacy he left behind, especially the house he lovingly built with his father, creating a forever home for his wife, Laurie, and their two children. In honoring Peter's memory, in lieu of flowers, his children kindly request contributions to help maintain this treasured family home, ensuring his legacy continues to provide comfort and joy for years to come. Contributions may be made online at https://everloved.com/life-of…; envelopes will also be available at the service.

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