Charles LaRosa

Charles LaRosa, 97, passed away on March 11, 2026, the same day his beloved wife had died 14 years earlier.

Born on December 19, 1928, in Long Island, New York, Charles moved to Sicily, Italy, shortly after his birth, where he was raised amid hardship. Those early years forged in him a quiet strength, resilience, and independence that defined his character. As a young man, he learned the trade of carpentry, a craft he practiced with pride throughout his life.

At the age of 23, he returned to the United States and joined the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. He was injured in a friendly fire incident and spent more than a year recovering in hospitals before receiving an honorable discharge. Undeterred, Charles built a life in Brooklyn, New York, where he met and married his wife, Marianna (Marion), and established a successful career as a carpenter, known for his skill and strong work ethic.

A deeply religious man, Charles remained a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of the Mount Roman Catholic Church in Warren and continued to watch daily Mass by livestream when he could no longer attend in person. He found great joy in simple pleasures—walking in nature, gardening, woodworking, and hunting—and cherished the flavors of his Sicilian heritage, especially his wife’s cooking. Above all, he treasured the closeness of his family.

Charles was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marianna (Marion) LaRosa, in March 2012; his brother, Anthony LaRosa; and his sister, Eva Bendig. He is survived by his loving son, Joseph LaRosa, and his wife, Patricia; and by his three cherished grandchildren, Dr. Elizabeth LaRosa, Dr. Joseph LaRosa, and Jillian LaRosa, all of whom brought him immense pride.