Vincent Joseph LaLima

Vincent Joseph LaLima passed away on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at the age of 73. He was a beloved husband, father, Nonno and friend, the heart of his family, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Born on July 1, 1950, in Resuttano, Sicily, Vincent migrated with his family to the neighborhood of Borough Park, Brooklyn where he grew up. From day one, Vincent was a hardworking natural salesman. He managed his own newspaper route in the neighborhood (and won multiple awards and a trip to Tunisia for most subscriptions), delivered produce around the block on his bicycle (making sure to sneak in a few grapes here and there) and even shined shoes on the corner of his block. He sold pots and pans door to door, drove an iconic NYC yellow cab and undoubtedly had numerous stories and friends from each chapter of his journey. Vincent graduated from Baruch Business college where he studied Business and jumped right into his career within the plastic industry. He spent time in both Brooklyn and Rochester, NY.

It wasn’t until the mid-80’s, when Vincent was traveling from the Newark airport, that he met his dashing bride, Lana, who was also pursuing her career. The two met and long distance dated until Lana made a bold move and sent Vincent a single rose for Valentine's Day. That is what sealed the deal. The next time Vince saw her he said, “I think we should do this” and they were married January 21, 1989 and had their only child, Angelina. Vincent was a present father who loved his daughter fiercely. He was notorious for always having the video camera out, laminating awards and certificates and being someone to come to for any and everything. Vincent helped shaped who his daughter is today and for that, she is forever grateful.

Vincent lived for his family. He had no filter, spoke what was on his heart, never met a stranger and was able to connect with everyone. Vincent had a great sense of humor and always had everyone around him laughing. Despite multiple health concerns throughout his life, he always came out of each situation stronger and with a positive mindset. He would often say, ‘I still have some good years left, don’t you worry.”

In 2022, when his only daughter, Angelina, called to share that she was expecting a little boy, Vincent and Lana sold their home of over 30 years and moved 15 minutes from their daughter. When Lorenzo was born, Vincent’s world shined brighter than it ever has. You could tell in his smile that Vince loved being a Nonno. He was over the moon when Lorenzo learned how to say Nonno and loved giving him kisses and hugs whenever he could. On the day he left us, he was enamored with the fact that Lorenzo shared cookies with him that afternoon, something a 2-year-old typically never does. The evening before his passing, he attended a Knights of Columbus meeting where he was a 4th Degree Knight and recently elected to represent the executive team. While only living in the area for a couple years, he grew a very strong bond to those men and found so much joy volunteering with them. He came home in a great mood, full of positive energy. His loss the next morning was a shock to all, but we are at peace knowing that he is in a better place.

Vincent LaLima is survived by his wife, Lana LaLima, his daughter, Angelina Daugherty (Thomas Daugherty) and his only grandson, Lorenzo Daugherty. He is also survived by his two sisters, Rosalie Kaecker and Joanna Weingand and their families. Vincent was predeceased in death by his mother, Domenica LaLima and his father, Joseph LaLima.

A funeral mass for Vincent will be held on Friday, July 5, 2024 at 11 am at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church, 12905 State Rd 70 E., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 with a committal service to follow at Mansion Memorial Park, 1400 36th Ave. E., Ellenton, FL 34222, at 1 pm.

Vincent lived for his only grandson Lorenzo and wanted nothing more than for him to be set up with a wonderful education. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Lorenzo’s 529 college fund in his name. https://www.529egift.org/FL/FTau1x