Obituary of Albert D Latino

Albert David Latino, age 87, longtime resident of Bernardsville. NJ, passed away on May 18, 2020. Al, born and raised in Bernardsville, was a kind and hard-working individual who maintained the family home for his entire life. Coming from a large family of 10 brothers and sisters, he grew up taking care of his mother, father and sisters while his brothers went on to serve our country during WW II. It was during this time that he developed his love of history as he kept track of the countries and the battles his brothers fought in. Later, Al enlisted in the US Army himself and rose to the rank of First Sargent serving as Drill Sargent for the army. After his military service, Al worked many jobs, saving enough money to pursue his dream of attending college. He enrolled in Seton Hall University where he earned his BS in Education. He was also a graduate of the New Jersey Institute of Teaching and Management. “Mr. Latino”, as he was lovingly known, enjoyed a 47-year career as an educator. He had an unwavering devotion to St. Elizabeth’s School where he taught religion, social studies, reading and even physical education. He also served as principal of Saint E’s for a short time. All through his life he dedicated himself to community service. His positive influence impacted the lives of hundreds of children through his love of teaching, coaching and mentoring students. He received many honors during his teaching career such as Outstanding Graduate of Seton Hall, Dept. of Education, Diocesan Outstanding Educator, and was listed multiple times in Who’s Who Among American Teachers. Al was also one of the founders of the Bernards Booster Club that later helped develop many recreational sports programs such as the Bernardsville Bulldogs. Al was a faithful man and very active in his Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. He attended mass where he served as Eucharistic Minister at The Sacred Heart Chapel in which his father helped build. Al enjoyed traveling, photography, reading and was an avid Yankees fan. Known for his love of family he hosted many family picnics on the lawn of his home, where his 18 nieces and nephews enjoyed playing ball, swimming and driving their mothers and fathers crazy. He is pre-deceased by his father, Joseph Latino, his mother, Christina (Campanella) and his 10 brothers and sisters and his dear brother-in-law, John Grof. He is the last of his generation. His many nieces and nephews, including Mark Grof and his wife Denise of Orlando, Florida, Edward Forsythe of Radcliff, Kentucky and Anthony DelloRusso of Bernardsville, survive him. His life was a gift to all who were fortunate enough to be part of his life. A virtual service will be available on the Gallaway and Crane Funeral Home Facebook page, both during and after the services are completed. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to St. Elizabeth’s School, Seney Drive, Bernardsville, earmarked as The Albert Latino Scholarship Fund. A memorial celebration of his life will be celebrated at a later date.