Obituary published on Legacy.com by Braun Family Funeral Home - Columbia on Jul. 15, 2025.
Benjamin Adam Lattina, son of Benjamin William and Josephine (Marks) Lattina was born April 22, 1935 in East St. Louis, IL. He was baptized as an infant at St Mark's Lutheran Church, Steelville, IL, where he also attended its parochial elementary school. Ben confirmed his faith on Palm Sunday in 1950. In 1953 he graduated from Trico High School, where he met his wife, Audrey. After graduation, he began his employment career with A&P Tea Company (grocery warehouse), where he remained for 22 years. He moved to Monsanto Chemical Company in 1975 and remained with Monsanto until his retirement in 1994.
He is survived by his wife, Audrey D. Shell, whom he married August 1, 1953, and his 2 sons, Alan D. Lattina (Teresa Bequette Lattina) and Arlen D. Lattina (Cyndi Neel Lattina). Ben is also survived by his grandson, Ryan A Lattina, step-grandchildren Kristen Sapaw and Lisa (Mike) Leese; great-grandchildren Kaylee Joy Lattina, Kellan Alan Lattina and Kynslee Grace Lattina; as well as step-great grandchildren Ian Sapaw, Aubrey Sapaw, Connor Leese and Riley Leese. His parents and brother, Lawrence (Fred) Lattina, preceded him in death.
Ben had several hobbies, but calling them hobbies would be an understatement. He had a very strong passion about bowling, gardening and attending Alan's and Arlen's sports activities. Also, anyone driving anywhere within 2 miles of his home around Christmas was immediately aware of his love of Christmas decorations by the glow of the lights and scenery. Always front and center was the reason for the season – Baby Jesus and the manger scene. Further, every year Ben and Audrey (and anyone they could convince to go) would take a trip to Branson, MO for the holiday shows and scenery. He loved the shows and was relentless in trying to get you to go see them. Ben and Audrey thoroughly enjoyed spending Friday nights playing cards and games with their friends. They had a very strong group of life-long friends. He also loved vintage cars, specifically Studebakers. His most cherished was a 1957 Studebaker Silver Hawk.
Ben was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church in St. Louis, MO. He spent many years as an usher there.
Ben fought valiantly for over 2 years as his health continued to decline. His attitude for life, despite his challenges, never changed. He was always looking forward to when he could again mow the grass and get his garden started.
Following the service, Ben will be interred in Percy Cemetery in Percy, IL. A small family gathering will be at the graveside. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org), which offers financial assistance to fallen first responder families.
Visitation will be on Wednesday July 16, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Braun Family Funeral Home 265 Quarry Rd.
Columbia, IL.
Funeral services will be held on Thurday at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev.Dr. Dennis Kastens and Rev. Edward Melchior officiating.
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