Lawrence Louis (Orlando) DeMilo (1923-2018) 95, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, died peacefully at home with his loving wife at his side, after a profoundly beautiful end of life. He was born to the late Angelo and Philomena DiMaiolo in Ambridge, Pennsylvania. A lifelong Catholic, he was a member of St. Valentine Catholic Church.
He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Sharon whom he loved for over 48 years; his adult children, Debbie DeMilo Afzali and Doug (Sue) DeMilo and dozens of nieces and nephews and their offspring. Preceding him in death in addition to his parents, were his seven siblings. A proud American and veteran of World War II, Lawrence served our country for three years in the US Air Force in the South Pacific.
Lawrence had a distinguished management career in the life insurance industry in the Southwest, where he was director of advertising and public relations in several corporations. He especially enjoyed being the editor and illustrator of many publications, and the voice of numerous radio commercials. He also was a teacher and entrepreneur in advertising and public relations.
Lawrence spent much of his childhood in the library reading, especially the encyclopedias from cover to cover. He enjoyed being a Boy Scout in his youth, and led a Boy Scout troop as an adult. He coached Little League, and was a leader in Junior Achievement.
He led a very active life, and had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Lawrence’s love of learning and curious mind were only rivaled by his amazing sense of humor. He was funny and witty!
Lawrence was well read with a focus on civilization, wars and American history and he had an avid interest in current affairs. With a thorough self taught knowledge of all classical music, Lawrence spent many hours recording and listening to it. In Arkansas, he supported the symphony and was best friends with the conductor.
Lawrence liked conversation, analyzing everything and always had a few words to say. Lawrence was a talented artist who began sketching as a child and then became a designer at heart. As a boy he designed futuristic automobiles and airplanes with features that came to pass during his long lifetime.
His keen eye for beauty, color and detail were incorporated into the building of their current home. Lawrence was a lifelong train enthusiast and photographer. He and Sharon really enjoyed riding steam trains, and the process of searching for just the perfect train car or other item for Lawrence’s meticulously designed train layouts.
Lawrence had a beloved pet, a Lakeland Terrier named Miss Angel Face who passed away four years ago. Angel Face was Lawrence’s faithful friend and companion for many years, bringing him daily joy and laughter, especially while Sharon was working. Overall, Lawrence was very passionate in all of his endeavors.
He was a wonderful loving husband and an amazing man. Arrangements are being made by Paul Henney Cremation and Funeral Tributes Inc. There will be no public viewing. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday at 10:00 AM at St. Valentine’s parish.
In lieu of flowers, Sharon requests donations be made to St. Valentine’s Saint Vincent de Paul Society because it helps so many people in need. www.
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