Palm Springs, CA/Webster,MA
Robert M. Lada, 61, of Palm Springs, CA and Webster, MA passed away peacefully
Thursday, April 16, in Palm Springs.
He leaves his mother, Theresa Lada, of Webster; his younger brother David Lada and his wife Michelle, of Mt. Kisco, NY; his older brother Anthony Lada, of Webster; his sister, Lois Foley and her husband James; his uncle, Joseph Lada of Webster; his aunts Marion Antkowiak, of Dudley, and Pauline Aucoin, also of Dudley; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, and two grandnieces. In addition, he leaves his closest friend Richard Marshall, who also became Robert’s devoted caretaker in Palm Springs.
Robert was born in Worcester, the son of Anthony and Theresa (Falso) Lada. He graduated from Bartlett High School in Webster, and then from The Boston Conservatory of Music, where he majored in classical piano performance. Although his professional career with Blue Cross Blue Shield—in various locations, chiefly at the Boston and Chicago offices—took him in a far different direction from music, he never lost his touch at the piano. In his younger days, while still working in Massachusetts, Robert was an active member of the Gateway Players of Southbridge, acting as the organization’s musical director and accompanist for several musical productions. Even when his job took him to Chicago, and, after his retirement from Blue Cross, to Palm Springs, he continued to be involved with local musical theater, as well as to offer lessons to budding pianists.
Those who heard Robert practicing piano, whether it was classical or popular, at a consistently high level of excellence knew that this was Robert’s passion in life.
In addition to playing piano Robert enjoyed spending time with family and friends, walking, summer vacations at Cape Cod, dining at fine restaurants, Broadway Shows and especially shopping. Robert had a kind and generous heart and brought comfort to many people. Most of all we will miss his sense of humor and ability to make people laugh.
The Robert J. Miller Funeral Home and Lake Chapel, 366 School St., Webster is honored to be assisting the Lada Family with arrangements.
At Robert’s request, there are No Calling Hours. Friends of Robert and the family wishing to pay their respects are invited to attend Robert’s funeral mass on Saturday, April 25, at 11A.M. at St. Louis Church, 16 Lake St., in Webster. Burial will be at a later date in Calvary Cemetery, Dudley.
Donations may be made in Robert’s memory to the American Parkinson Disease Association (www.apdaparkinson.org).
On Line Guest Book or to Share a Memory of Robert: RJMillerfunerals.net