anthony laposta
Anthony Thomas LaPosta passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on February 12th, in Bradenton, FL, after an extended bout with Leukemia with his loving family by his side. He was born April 17th, 1948, to the late Tony and Sue LaPosta. He was an accomplished man both professionally and personally, and he was known and loved throughout the entire Ohio Valley. He graduated from Weir High School and attended the University of Kansas, where he met his beloved wife and best friend, Patricia. After obtaining his Bachelors of Science, he remained at the University of Kansas, working toward his Masters of Science. As a scientist, he started as the lead sanitarian of Hancock County, ultimately being appointed to be the head Health Department Administrator of his region. During his tenure, he worked as Secretary and Treasurer of the Tri-State Environmental Health Association for over 20 years, and was appointed as the Northern Panhandle Representative on the West Virginia Environmental Liaison Committee, Chief Coordinator for the West Virginia Threat Preparedness Committee, Director of the Hancock County Local Emergency Planning Committee and a member of the West Virginia Emergency Consortium. A talented musician both by instrument and voice, he led the Anthony Thomas band for decades, while producing numerous solo projects for the jazz and contemporary R&B genres. He could play any instrument or sing any note, but was most dedicated to writing lyrics. As a track coach at Weirton Madonna and Oak Glen, he drove numerous athletes to state championships, while assisting in the recruitment efforts of countless division one scholarships. His proudest moments did not involve winning, instead by mentoring student-athletes to succeed in the classroom and thrive into early adulthood. As an eternal optimist, he felt best when others around him were as happy as possible. As humble as one can be, he shied away from taking credit for any accomplishment, instead empowering others' self-confidence. He gained respect by his diplomacy, by his natural peaceful state of mind. He was a man of many talents and interests, which was fueled by intelligence and interest in any subject matter. Socially, he was one of many Italian "neighborhood guys", smiling proudly each day knowing his heritage. He traveled happily throughout the United States on road trips, and would fly across the country to watch any sporting event in person. You could also find him at wine and jazz festivals in his spare time. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Patricia, of Bradenton, FL. Two sons: Rico (Francesca) LaPosta of Marina Del Rey, CA, and Michael (Mariela) LaPosta of Seattle, WA. One grandchild, Roman, of Marina Del Rey, CA. Two sisters: Geraldine (Thomas) Banketas of Weirton and Sandra (Richard) Riopelle of Weirton. He is also survived by his two beloved dogs, Romeo and Heidi. Visitation will be held Wednesday and Thursday from 4-8pm each evening at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton, WV. Additional visitation will be held Friday from 10 until the 11am funeral service at the Cove Presbyterian Church. Reverend Dr. Ed Rudiger will officiate. Interment will follow in St. John's Cemetery, Colliers. WV.

Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. Gerry and Tom, Sorry to learn of the loss of your brother. I remember him as track coach but also a very giving person. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. jerry hamill

  2. I remember Anthony as the little boy running around the neighborhood. I wish I could have known him as the fine, accomplished man he had grown to be. My deepest sympathies to Sandy, Gerry, Patricia, & the rest of his family. May God comfort & console you all.

  3. To the LaPosta family;

    Coached with Anthiny at Madonna. To this day when I hear the song “Ain’t too proud to beg” I think of him and his band. May God grant him eternal rest.

  4. Prayers for Anthony’s family. He will be missed, he always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. Weir High Class of 66.

  5. Thoughts and prayers to Anthony’s family. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to see him in January at the Orlando WHS reunion.

  6. The WHS Class of ’66 has lost one of it’s truly unique jewels. Our sincere sympathy to Anthony’s family. Rest in Peace Labeaux!

  7. Gerry and Tommy, I am so sorry for you on the loss of your brother, Anthony. I have wonderful memories of high school days. What a profound legacy Anthony has as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and a giant in his community. God bless you and your entire family while grieving the loss of Anthony. I pray that our Sovereign Lord will guide your hearts to know comfort, strength, and His peace. Love, Toni

  8. Anthony was a dear friend and I will miss him beyond what words can express. Through hundreds of gigs together we became family. I feel blessed that I got to be a part of his world. As a father, husband, friend, and ally, few will reach his standard. I will miss you my brother. May God grant you peace.

  9. Our thoughts and prayers are with Patty and her family. Anthony will be greatly missed by our family and by Lily.

  10. Patty, Rico, Michael and family,

    I’m so sorry to hear about Tony. Your KC family is thinking of you and sending you prayers for strength and peace.

    Much love – Shanna

  11. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Anthony. It was just a few week ago that we were in Italian class at Sts. Peter and Paul. God bless you and your family. Rest in peace my dear friend.

  12. LaPosta Family,

    We have such fond memories of Anthony. Just a great man.

    We enjoyed many fine discussions over the years with Anthony & Edalo at the Marl-inn solving the problems of the world. A wonderful family man filled with spirit and love. You have our deepest sympathy.

    Rex & Debi Fisher

  13. Tony & Sherry (Foley) Foglio

    Our condolences to the family. We are thankful to have known Anthony and for the legacy he leaves.

  14. Our deepest sympathy to the family of Anthony. Such a sadness to lose a husband and dad when it shouldn’t have been his time. But he is with our Lord now and feeling peace and comfort. Blessing.

  15. Antonio was our beloved fellow student in the SS peter/paul Italian class here in Florida. He and I always sat together in class, we reserved our seats when one of us was late to class. He is missed by his fellow classmates, we wondered what had happened to him.


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