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Smith-Corcoran Palatine Funeral Home

185 E. Northwest Hwy.

Palatine, Illinois

Philip LaPlaca Obituary

LaPlaca, Philip D. 52, loving son of Philip and Lillian (nee Santo). Beloved brother of Judith LaPlaca, loving nephew and godson of Judith (Robert) Smitko, nephew of Nick (Irene) Santo, the late Natal (Janet) and Jerald MD. (Sue) LaPlaca, dear friend of Marty Rogo, Rigo and Douglas Arauz. Funeral Saturday 9:30 AM from Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 185 E. Northwest Hwy., Palatine to St. Thomas of Villanova for mass at 10:00 AM Entombment All Saints Cemetery. Visitation Friday 3-9 PM . A gift in honor of Philip to support Brain Tumor research may be made to the Northwestern Brain Tumor Institute c/o Ms. Holly Gibout, Northwestern Memorial Foundation, 676 N. St. Clair, Ste. 2050, Chicago, IL 60611 (http://foundation.nmh.org/ NBTIGift) would be appreciated. Info, 847-359-8020 or visit Philip's memorial at www.smithcorcoran.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times from Jan. 14 to Jan. 15, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Philip LaPlaca

Not sure what to say?





Ginna shannon

April 12, 2024

I was cleaning out my house and I had a great painting and a scarf he made for Mr


I was cleaning out my house and I have a wonderful painting and a scarf a
He made for me. I did not know he passed away so early.
Let me know if you want them. Otherwise I will treasure them forever.

Ken Lawber

January 30, 2010

I was Phil's roommate his first year at Southern IL University in 1977.

We had kept in touch all these years, and I am at a loss for words to descibe
my sadness due to his passing.

Phil will live on in my memories. He was a tremendously loyal friend and a stupendous person which I feel truely blessed to have known.

Bill Schumacher

January 15, 2010

To Phil's parents and family:

I have fond memories of Phil when we worked together at Neiman Marcus and later when I would see him in Marshall Fields. I treasure a beautiful scarf he made for me and more the freindship we had. I regret I cannot attend the Services but be assured of my prayers and thoughts. Eternal Peace, Phil.

Bill Schumacher

Bob and Jeanne Kutschke

January 15, 2010

We knew Phil while he was in grade school aa Immaculate Connception and in Cub Scouts. We are very sad to hear of Phil's passing. Be thankful for all the memories everyone has of Phil as that helps with the healing process. Our thoughts and prayers are with Phil's family and friends.

Susan Drake

January 14, 2010

I met Phil through our mutual friend Glenn, when we worked together at Field's. I always admired his sophistication and wit, and his generous spirit. I know he will be missed by many. My condolences to his family and friends.

Paul Vavrinchik

January 14, 2010

I first met Phil in the early '80's when he worked at Neiman Marcus. I remember many good times over the years, including attending parties he hosted at his Chicago apartment, and socializing with him at many gatherings with mutual friends . I will always remember Phil's quick wit, great sense of humour, and laughter as well as being a very kind, nice, down-to-earth soul. In addition, I will always remember Phil's artistic talent and his ability to produce beautiful artwork. Thoughts of sympathy are extended to Phil's entire family during this time. Sincerely Paul Vavrinchik (Chicago)

Patti Madro

January 14, 2010

To Rigo and the LaPlaca family,

I was saddened to hear of Phil's passing and will keep you in my prayers during this time of sorrow.

I hope the memories you have help guide you through this difficult time and that you find comfort in knowing what a wonderful person Phil was.

I knew Phil as someone who held true to his ideals. Phil was not only a talented artist but had a great sense of humor as well.

Although I have since parted ways with Houlihan Lokey, I will remember fondly the Phil LaPlaca farmer's market. During the spring and summer months my desk always had fresh flowers -- his peonies were gorgeous! Come August and September the tomatoes and peppers were abundant and Phil always brought me some after his weekend harvest. Not only did Phil bring me the vegetables, he told me how best to cook them too!

Phil will most certainly be missed.

Martha McShea-Davis

January 14, 2010

We are very sorry to hear of Phil's illness and passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone at this most difficult time. May you remember Phil and the beautiful memories that you have of him.

Love, Martha and John Davis

Deanna Papesh

January 14, 2010

I have known Phil for about 9 years here at work and he was truly a special person. He was such a gifted artist and a wonderful individual. His artwork adorning our reception area always makes me smile, and will keep him close in my memory. Prayers go out to his family and friends. He will be dearly missed here.

Rita Antonczyk

January 14, 2010

My heart goes out to you now and in the days ahead. may you be comforted by the memories of Phillip in happier times. Love you all, Rita

Showing 1 - 10 of 10 results

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Memorial Events
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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Smith-Corcoran Palatine Funeral Home

185 E. Northwest Hwy., Palatine, IL 60067

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