Ernest P. Ladas

Ernest P. Ladas, age 93, of Neptune, NJ, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2024. He and his family were longtime residents of Westfield, NJ, for over 50 years.

Born on October 7, 1930, in Glassport, Pennsylvania, Ernest was the son of Greek immigrants Peter Gorris-Ladas and Stella Economos. He graduated from Glassport High School in 1947 and attended the University of Pittsburgh before enlisting in the Air Force. From 1951 to 1953, he served his country as an Airman 1st Class B-29 Aerial Gunner during the Korean War. His heroism and bravery in combat earned him the Silver Star Medal for saving the lives of his 14-member crew by dismantling a live bomb from explosion during a mission. He was also awarded the Combat Air Medal, Korean Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal.

Ernest was a dedicated entrepreneur and restaurateur for over 40 years, owning and operating establishments such as The Atlantic Restaurant, Golden Lantern, Madison Coffee Shop, and Rahway Restaurant and Bar Supply businesses.

An avid reader, Ernest passionately loved cooking, golfing, and spending time with family and friends. He was a founding member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Westfield, NJ, and a member of the American Legion and AHEPA organizations.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Cynthia A. Ladas; his children, Peter (Angie) Ladas and Stephen (Jennifer) Ladas; four grandchildren, Jaclyn, Aris, Basil Ladas, and Amber (Matt) Santiago; two great-grandchildren, Thomas and Lucia Santiago; and his sister, Kathryn Athanasoulas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Stella Gorris-Ladas, and his brother, Gregory Gorris-Ladas.

The viewing and funeral will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, located at 250 Gallows Hill Rd, Westfield, NJ.. Visitation will be from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Ernest’s memory.