Carmen F. Gligora

Our beloved father Carmen F. Gligora, 85 left us to join his bride, Phyllis E. on Saturday August 11, 2012. They are together once again.

Carmen and Phyllis met at Buffalo State University where they were both studying to become teachers. For Phyllis it was love at first sight. Our mother won his heart. They married on August 27th, 1955 in Niagara Falls, NY.

Carmen and Phyllis began their life together in a small one bedroom apartment, later purchasing their 1st family home on Grand Island, NY. It was there on Broadway that they started their family by adopting their first child, Christina Ann (Tina) in 1959. 3 years later they moved into their Whitehaven home in anticipation of the adoption of their 2nd child, Jonathan Allen in 1962. Carmen and Phyllis enjoyed raising their family and pursuing their careers.

In 1970, Carmen and Phyllis desired another child. The adoption laws at that time almost prevented Carmen from becoming a father for the 3rd time due to his age. Carmen was determined to overcome this obstacle with Catholic Charities and in the end that determination prevailed and Melissa Eileen (Missy) joined the family in 1971.

Dad’s dedication to helping children was his focus as he centered his career in education resulting in 2 master degrees and a PHD. Dad always believed family comes first which led him to becoming a marriage and family counselor. This was an outward sign of his spiritual devotion. Carmen was a devoted Catholic and was very involved with Holy Family Catholic Church, Orlando, FL.

Throughout the years Carmen was very active in the community, participating in 4th of July parades with his children, running for city councilman and was a member of the Kiwanis Club. After retirement, Carmen was actively involved in the Condo and timeshare associations. He was member of the board for Diamond Resorts and Fountains Condo Association.

Of all the values that dad taught us, the most remembered was tolerance, kindness and understanding. Dad’s most remembered quote was “If you don’t have anything nice to say, do not say anything at all”.

Carmen is survived by his brother Guido of Rochester, NY and 2 sisters Minnie of Rochester, NY and Antoinette of Rochester, NY. His 3 children, Christina (Tina) of Edmond, Ok, Jonathan (Jon) of Orlando, FL, Melissa (Missy) of Chiefland,FL . 2 grandchildren Stephanie and Rhett and great grandson Cristian.

Dad although we miss you every day your legacy lives on through us. Services will be held Tuesday August 14, 2012. Viewing at 11am, Services at 12pm Woodlawn Memorial Park 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road Gotha, FL 34734.

Friends and family gathering at Rossi’s South Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, FL. following service.