Joseph Laratta, 62 of Island Heights, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 03, 2008 surrounded by his family. He was an aviation technician and worked for the US Government. He served in US Marines during the Vietnam War and was awarded the Air Medal and several other service medals. He served in the Army National Guard, the Air National Guard and the Department of the Navy from 1974 until he retired in 1995. He was employed by Ocean County in the vehicle maintenance department for Ocean Ride senior citizen transportation from 1995 to 2006. Born in East Orange, he grew up in Bloomfield, and lived in Virginia and Mercerville. He lived in Toms River for 28 years before moving to Island Heights four years ago. He was predeceased by his sister, Virginia Schwartz in 1995. Surviving are: His wife Margaret Strapko Laratta Son: Daniel and his girlfriend Jennifer Highet of Manchester Twp. Daughter: Holly Lafore and her husband Jay of Epsom, NH Two Brothers: Charles Laratta of New York City James Laratta of Titusville, FL Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Friends are invited to call Sunday from 6 to 9 at the Kedz Funeral Home, 1123 Hooper Ave., Toms River. A funeral service will be held 10:30 am, Monday at the Funeral Home followed by a 12:30 p.m. interment and military honors at the Brig. General William Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Arneytown. In lieu of flowers donations in Joseph’s name may be made to Southern Ocean County Hospital, Oncology Dept., 1140 Route 72 West, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.