Philip Laserna

Philip Rafael Laserna

Philip Rafael Laserna, age 58, of Ocala , Florida passed away on August 17, 2022. He was born December 27, 1963 in Lebanon, Pennsylvania to Rafael Laserna, who preceded him in death, and Priscilla (Scharadin) Laserna.

He moved to Florida with his family as a young boy. He graduated from Lake Brantley High School in 1981 and attended the University of Florida prior to enlisting in the U.S. Navy.

Phil served his country honorably as an Electronics Technician in the U.S. Navy. He enlisted in 1990 and went on to serve aboard the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS-39), and the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS-40).

Phil proudly “pushed boots” as a drill instructor at Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, Illinois from 2005 to 2008. While serving there he was selected for promotion as Chief Petty Officer in 2008, an honor which was the capstone of his career.

After retiring with 20 years and 7 months of service he returned to Florida to join his mother, Priscilla Sharadin Tate, who preceded him in death, and his step-Father, Howard Bud Tate, of DeLand, FL.

Survivors include his step-Father, Howard “Bud” Tate, former wife Kristy Paquette, two daughters Elizabeth Laserna and Olivia Laserna and his sister Jennifer DeBerry Swanson. There will be a graveside service on Friday September 2, 2022 at 10:30am at the Sarasota National Cemetery with military honors. Countryside Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Chief Petty Officer Phil Laserna, USNR.