John Lattauzio

John Lattauzio, 78



Longtime Alamogordo Businessman

John Lattauzio, 78, passed away on January 12, 2017 in St. George, Utah. He was born on August 18, 1938 in White Plains, New York. He joined the marines in 1956 and served for eight years. He moved to Alamogordo, New Mexico in 1960 and two years later he began his lifelong career as a businessman by opening the first of many successful businesses. Over the next 50 years he put his heart and soul into his family, his business, Alamogordo and the State of New Mexico.

In 1977 he served as chairman of the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce. He served as President of the Committee of 50. He chaired the Otero County Republican party for eight years and served as the New Mexico State Chairman for another six years. During that time he expanded J&J Mini-Markets from a single location to over 11 stores in two states. He also ran a small grocery store, numerous coin laundries, a mobile home park, and a health food store. John never ignored the city he worked in. He served the City of Alamogordo and the State of New Mexico with a passion, always hoping to make a positive impact. He influenced many people and always helped those in need.

Anyone who knew John knew his first love was his family. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 30 years, Kathy Lattauzio. His children: Michael Lattauzio, 46; Lori Forrest, 41; Beth Meeks, 39. His grandchildren: Shane Alexander, 17; Hannah Armstrong, 16; Jake Armstrong, 15; Reagan Forrest, 11. He is also survived by his two sisters: Diana and Ray Bradham and Anna Zaiss, along with numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws.

John loved politics and a good debate. He was an avid writer and enjoyed reading and education. He had a strong desire to help those less fortunate and always looked for ways to volunteer his time to improve his community. He loved traveling with his wife, spending time outdoors, and playing games with his family and friends. The last few years he was able to retire in St. George, Utah with Kathy and their dogs. He loved nothing more than starting the morning with a cup of coffee with Kathy. John and Kathy had a shared love for animals, particularly their sweet puppies. The puppies all waited to take turns to sit in John's lap every evening.

A memorial service will be held at Hamilton-O'Dell Funeral Home, 1334 Scenic Dr., Alamogordo, NM, on February 4, 2017, at 11:00AM, with a reception to be announced. The family has asked in lieu of flowers please send a donation to the local animal shelter of your choice or to the Southern Utah Veterans Home at 160 N. 200 E Ivins, Utah 84738.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Lattauzio, please visit our floral store.