John "Big John" Latini, Jr.

Mr. John “Big John” Latini, Jr. age 88 ,of New Hartford, passed away on Saturday August 7, 2021 at the Sitrin Healthcare Center with his loving son John III and wife Lucille by his side.

He was born in Rome, NY on February 17, 1933 a son of the late John and Esterina Rossi Latini and was a graduate of Rome Free Academy. He served our country in the US Army 7th Infantry Division in the Korean War from 1953-1955. On June 15, 1957 he was married to Phyllis Annatone, a blessed union of 50 years until her passing in 2007.

“Big John” was employed for over 34 years with the N.Y.S.D.O.T as a tree climber. He was an expert tree cutter and was widely known for his expertise. “Big John” also owned and operated John Latini Landscaping and Tree Service. He also worked in the Security Dept. of MVCC for 25 years. John’s strong work ethic spanned over 60 years until his retirement. He was a member of the New Hartford American Legion. “Big John” was truly “a legend”.

Surviving are his devoted son and daughter-in-law John III and Lucille Latini of New Hartford; his daughter Lisa Latini of Clinton; his cherished grandchildren John Michael and wife Courtney Latini and Nicole Lynn Latini; his two cherished great-grandsons Leo and Lennon Latini; his dear companion Joan Witte; one brother and sister-in-law William “Bill” and Beatrice Latini; and several nieces, nephews and dear friends who were like family to “Big John”, Mike and Elaine Longo and the Nolan, Cardillo and Arcuri families, who were always so attentive to John and concerned about his well-being.

He was predeceased by one sister Angeline Gualteri.

There will be no public visitation.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday at 11:00 am in Our Lady of Lourdes Church. Private entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. The family extends a special thank you to the staff of the Aspen Household at the Sitrin Healthcare Center for their care and concern. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Anita's Stevens Swan Humane Society at anitas-sshs.org in memory of John.