Joseph Anthony La Rosa, beloved Dad & Papa, passed away peacefully in his home in Sorrento, FL on March 20th 2021 at the age of 81. Joe leaves behind his daughter Nicole Shaw, son John La Rosa, daughter Patricia Salzone, son Joseph La Rosa, his brothers Thomas La Rosa and Charles La Rosa, as well as 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. During his week long transition into heaven, Joe was surrounded by the love of his family; Nicole Shaw & Justin Gray and their children Caitlin La Rosa, Abbigail Lare, Caleb Lare, Declan Shaw, Austin Sanders and great-granddaughter Londyn Sanders; John & Kayla La Rosa and their children Liam, Mason and Lily La Rosa; and Marilyn La Rosa the mother of Nicole and John La Rosa.
For the 8 months prior to his passing Joe lived with Nicole & Justin and their children. The love and laughter he brought into their home was so very special, as was the peace, love and happiness he received from his family. Joe loved a great meal always and his morning cup of coffee every day, he enjoyed vacations at the beach, playing cards with his family, watching videos of his grandson, Liam, playing t-ball, sitting on the front porch enjoying nature or sitting by the back doors watching the cows out back, and late night shenanigans with the family – he definitely kept life interesting! In his home, Nicole was Joe’s “love and light” and took care of his every need possible, Justin was his “Big Man” always helping with Papa’s physical needs & getting around the house, Caitlin was his comfort spending quality time having bedside talks, Austin was his helper when Justin wasn’t around, Londyn put smiles on his face with her pure sweetness, Abbigail was Papa’s “Little Helper” getting him anything he needed, Caleb was his “Watchman” always checking on him and Declan was his Best Friend as was Papa Declan’s BEST Friend, Declan always made Papa laugh and smile with his silly dances and funny conversations with Papa.
“Papa” is missed terribly, our hearts and home will never be the same without him.