James A. LaTorre, Jr., 76 of Lawrence, passed away on June 3, 2016 at Boston Medical Hospital. He was born December 24, 1939 in Lawrence, MA, son of James A. LaTorre, Sr. and Ida C. (DiStefano) LaTorre.
Mr. LaTorre, Jr. was a graduate of the Lawrence school system and a graduate of Lowell Technological Institute. He was a Vietnam Veteran serving with Army Strategic Group. He was a retired electrical and electronic engineer from Raytheon Co. and was also a commissioner at the Lawrence Municipal Airport.
Mr. LaTorre, Jr. was a member of the Fellowship Bible Church in Methuen, the National Society of Professional Engineers , the Massachusetts Society of Professional Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Experimental Aircraft Association, Merrimack Valley Philharmonic, the American Legion, Lawrence Sons of Italy Lodge 902, and the Andover Sportsmen Club. He was also a registered, professional engineer, a Toast Master, a Chairman of the advance manufacturing council, an inventor & designer of electronic test equipment, and the author of two technical publications. He also enjoyed amateur radio KIZVM, Fishing, Camping, Photography, Painting, Music, Aircraft Flying, Sport Cars & Motorcycling with his son and daughter
He is survived by his son, James A. LaTorre, III; daughter, Janice Marie LaTorre; mother of his children, Veronica LaTorre; sister, Mildred LaTorre Forgetta and her husband Arthur Forgetta; and many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will honor and celebrate Mr. LaTorre, Jr.'s life by gathering for calling hours at the KENNETH H. POLLARD FUNERAL HOME, 233 Lawrence St., Methuen on Thursday, June 9, 2016 from 4-8 PM. His funeral service will take place on Friday at 9AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Bellevue Cemetery in Lawrence.
Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, Memorial Giving Program, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. For directions or to send a condolence to Mr. LaTorre, Jr.'s family, please visit www.pollardfuneralhome.com. The Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home is honored to serve the LaTorre family.