Ridgefield Obituaries: Peter LaForte, MD and Joseph F. Pacific

Peter LaForte, MD.

Peter LaForte, MD., 89, of Ridgefield, CT., husband of Jeannette (Grieco) LaForte, died on Sunday, August 24, 2014 at his residence. Dr. LaForte was born in Frankfort, NY November 27, 1924, a son of the late Stephanie and Philip LaForte. Moving to Brooklyn, NY at an early age with his family, Dr. LaForte attended Brooklyn schools, Columbia University and graduated from New York University Medical School. A medical career spanning over sixty years, Dr. LaForte initially practiced pediatric medicine and in later years returned to complete a medical residency pursuing a career in ophthalmology. He maintained a private practice in ophthalmology in Stamford. A World War II United States Army veteran, Dr. LaForte was a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Connecticut Medical Society, Senior Men's Club of New Canaan and the Country Club of Darien. A resident of Ridgefield for the past sixteen years coming from New Canaan, he was a former member of St. Aloysius Church and presently a member of St. Mary Catholic Church of Ridgefield where he was a member of the church choir.

In addition to his wife of 54 years, he is survived by three children, Peter J. LaForte and his wife, Judy Ratner, of Stamford, CT; Elizabeth LaForte of Cedar Rapids, IA; and Christopher A. LaForte of Bethel, CT; a sister, Faye Reggio, of Howard Beach, NY; and five grandchildren, Olivia Dane, Hannah, Eve and Evan.

Besides his parents, Dr. LaForte was pre-deceased by two brothers, John LaForte and Frank DiMostra and by two sisters, Anna Alfano and Frances Messina.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28 at 10:15 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 55 Catoonah St., Ridgefield. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Kane Funeral Home, 25 Catoonah St., Ridgefield, CT. on Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Contributions in Dr. LaForte's memory may be made to the National Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance (www.tsalliance.org), 801 Roeder Road, Suite 750, Silver Spring, MD. 20910.

Joseph F. Pacific

Joseph F. Pacific, age 68, of Danbury, CT, passed away on August 26, 2014 at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Mary Ellen (Carboni) Pacific.

He was born on October 12, 1945 in Bridgeport, CT, son of the late Joseph F. Pacific and Helen (Harbay) Pacific.

He was a graduate of Notre Dame High School in Bridgeport, CT. In 1967 he was an alumnus of the first graduating class of Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT. He went on to study for his masters at East Tennessee State University.

Joe had several careers - worked in sales, business owner and a Math teacher. Joe began his career as a math teacher in Bethel, CT. and retired from teaching at Henry Abbott Technical High School in Danbury, CT. His passion for teaching was evident to his high school students and adult learners as he prepared them for their future jobs. He encouraged his students to love and embrace the subject of Math.

Joe loved his family and especially his grandchildren who visited their Papa almost every day. Joe was a generous witty man who always brought a smile to those who knew him. He had a keen sense of style and always looked dapper.
Joe was an avid sports fan and his favorite teams were the Yankees and Giants.

In addition to his wife of 46 years, he is survived by his son: Timothy Pacific of Danbury, daughter Katharine Cooper (Erik) of Danbury, and his grandchildren; Caitlyn Pacific, Jake, Mackenzie and Anthony Cooper,
his brother, Rick Pacific, sister Mary McLaughlin (Dave). Joe is also fondly remembered by his sister-in laws; Francine Carmody, Elizabeth Carboni, Joan & Jack Hughes, Terri & Patrick Carmody, and brother-in law Harry & Sandy Carboni, as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews.

During his many health issues, Joe never lost his faith in God's will and that sustained him and his family.

The family would also like to thank Yale New-Haven Neurosurgical ICU team for their support and compassion during this difficult time.

The family will receive friends in the Kane Funeral Home, 25 Catoonah St., Ridgefield, CT on Friday, August 29, 2014 from 4 PM to 8 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 30, 2014 at 10:15 AM in St. Mary Church, Ridgefield, CT. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Ridgefield, CT.

Friends are asked to kindly omit flowers.

R
Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next