Philip – Catona

Philip CatonarnrnBeing raised as one of 16 kids made him hard as nails, but gentle as a lamb. It also put his life in perspective and allowed him to laugh about life’s ups and downs. rnHe was the life of the party entertaining with a quick line or something as silly as a napkin on his head. He once passed around a box for people to make a donation. As he put the money in his pocket he was asked what the donations were for. “Just for me, thanks.” He taught his grandkids the fun way of making peanut butter and jelly: just stick your hands in the jars.rnHe was always on the move: daily breakfast at the Holiday Inn, bus trips to the casinos, flying out of Cross Keys airport and even competitive ballroom dancing (long before Dancing with the Stars.) Later years found him enjoying more than a few vacations: Hawaii, Italy and the Bahamas.rnIf he had something, his children were welcome to it. When they were young payday meant treats for the kids and in his home he had every pet imaginable from sea horses to chicks to rabbits. He once even bought them a mail order dog. They never had to ask, he just gave.rnHis generosity was more than just for his family: he once gave away most of their furniture when he heard of another family in need. He also gave back to his country: he served in the Army in Okinawa and Korea. He retired from SEPTA after 24 years of service. rnHe went back to the motherland to meet his bride, Fortunata (Tina). She spoke very little English, he spoke very little Italian, but their love saw them through. Their 56 year marriage was blessed by two daughters: Mary Catona and Tina (Bill) McNamee and 3 grandchildren: Katie, Billy, and Philip. He is survived by his siblings: Albert, Johnny, James, Mary Roberts, and Josephine Brown; step-sister, Frances and many nieces and nephews. rnCome celebrate 80 great years, Wednesday 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at Daley Life Celebration Studio, Swedesboro. Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 at St. Joseph’s Church. In lieu of flowers donations to the American Cancer Society, 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd, Cherry Hill NJ 08034 will be appreciated. Tell a great story about Philip at lifecelebrationstudio.com. rnrn