Dennis F. “Papa” LaVita, Sr., 59 of Somerville, died Thursday unexpectedly in the Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.
Born in Boston, he lived in Somerville most of his life and was formerly of the West End of Boston. He was the son of the late Helen M. (Testa) and Anthony J. LaVita. Dennis was an Engineer employed by the former Kinetic Systems in Roslindale for several years. For many years he played guitar with the Jurie Christie and 7th Heaven Band, also taught guitar and piano. He attended Berkley School of Music in Boston and Roxbury Community College for Computer Aided Design.
Beloved husband of Thomasina (Wilks) LaVita. Devoted father of Dennis F. LaVita Jr. and Michelle D. LaVita both of Cambridge. Loving grandfather of Latoiya, Shaline, Giovanni, Shaquelle, Destiny, and Zion LaVita. Loving great grandfather of Anthony “Titi” Wallace. Brother of Charlotte Fraser and her husband William of Stoneham. Uncle of Carla Cheng, Deanna Longo, Anthony Fraser, Janeane Pennucci and 7 great nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD Thursday at 9 AM followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Ann Church, 399 Medford St., Somerville, at 10 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Wednesday 4 - 8. Services will conclude with burial at Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent in Dennis’ name to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.