Angelo La Cognata

Angelo LaCognata, 98, of El Lago, Texas went to be with the Lord on February 19, 2021. Preceded in death by the love of his life after 51 years of marriage, Anna, and parents Angelina and Angelo LaCognata who died at young ages. Born in Manhattan, NY, to Sicilian immigrants and raised in Brooklyn by his Grandfather, Luigi Cicero and Aunt/Uncle Tess and Sam Marotta.

He learned to speak English when he started grade school. Upon completion at the Manhattan High School of Aviation Trades in 1941 he enlisted, with his Aunt’s consent, in the US Navy in 1942 to serve in WWII as Aviation Machinist Mate 2nd Class stationed at North Island, San Diego, CA. Received his Airman certificate in 1947 as Mechanic for Aircraft Engines, now known as Airframe & Power Plant (A&P) license. He has been recognized by the FAA as the longest serving mechanic who held certificates for Airframe & Power Plant as well as Inspection Authorization (I/A) in the United States. His love for aircraft never ended. Worked for various airlines around the world including Pan American Airways and TWA as a registered Flight Engineer.

His love for God, Church and Family guided him to become a member of the Knights of Columbus in 1945, obtained 4th Degree in 1964 and Lifetime Membership, served as Grand Knight. He faithfully attended mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church and St. Claire of Assisi Catholic Church. Visiting with the Priest and fellow parishioners was a favorite pastime after mass.

His career with Grumman Aerospace started in Bethpage, New York. Upon relocating to Texas in 1966 he worked as a Quality Control Engineer. He was very proud to work on the Luna Excursion Module (LEM) project which put the first man on the moon. Served as President for Grumman Retirees.

Worked for companies in Quality Engineering as a registered Professional Engineer. The PE certification was obtained thru experience. While employed at Brown & Root, Inc. he was certified in all areas of Non Destruction Testing (NDT). He travelled extensively during his employment conducting inspections in throughout the Middle East and Japan. After retiring in 1973 his love for aircraft continued.

The FAA appointed him as an Aircraft/Engine Examiner. Maintained his A&P and IA authorizations. Inspected and certified over 500 mechanics worldwide. Instrumental in starting an Aircraft Mechanic school in Houston, TX as Vice President and Instructor. Certified many students with their Airframe & Power plant (A&P) license to work on aircraft. One of the first in Texas to obtained the prestigious Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award in 1995.

Involved with the 1940 Airport Museum at Hobby Airport as one of the original founders and volunteers. With his extensive knowledge of vintage aircraft he volunteered at the Lone Star Flight Museum. His love for the water was enjoyed volunteering with the Sailing Angels Foundation.

From working on submarines to aircraft to spacecraft, he was also interested in horse racing, bowling, fencing, boxing and the list goes on. His love of the Brooklyn Dodgers and baseball led him to be the Baseball Commissioner for the Middle County District Youth Association (MCDYA) in New York during the 1960’s. Angelo held numerous memberships in organizations supporting veterans, the airline industry and police organizations.

Angelo touched many lives and will be dearly missed by Family, Extended Family and Friends he loved and treasured.

A special Thank You to all the Healthcare and Hospice workers who took great care of him during his final weeks as well as providing family support. You are all Angels on Earth.

He is survived by his son Tom LaCognata wife Lydia, daughter Joann LaCognata husband Mark Erickson, grandchildren Jason LaCognata, Jennifer LaCognata friend Josh, Cousin Roy Ferrera wife Sarah, Cousin Gavin Ruotolo wife Marsha, Cousin Dr. Robert Ruotolo wife Patricia, extended Family and many Friends.

In lieu of flowers, tributes can be made to the Sailing Angels Foundation, Lone Star Flight Museum, 1940 Air Terminal Museum or the charity of your choice.