Michael Lattin

Michael Anthony Lattin was born November 16, 1940, in Oroville, California. He will be remembered for his devoted service to his country, his unwavering optimism, and the love he had for his family. A soldier, teacher, mentor, and friend, he met setbacks with determination and believed in finding a way forward. As he once reflected, “I had no way of knowing this would be my life, but it has been great.”

Michael’s Army journey began in 1959, after his plans to study at Georgia Tech took an unexpected turn. He served on active duty until 1962, then continued in the Army Reserve, including service with a Special Forces A-team in St. Petersburg, Florida, as a demolitions and weapons sergeant. In 1976, he returned to active service, beginning a military career that would span nearly four decades and take him around the world.

Returning to service as a private first class at 36, Michael rose rapidly through the ranks to Chief Warrant Officer 4, serving as a technical instructor and course developer. He served with numerous units and earned many decorations. His work included modernizing weapons, testing the Bradley Fighting Vehicle’s reliability at Fort Carson, and teaching at the Ordnance School in Saudi Arabia. Later, as a human factors specialist at Aberdeen Proving Ground, he helped make equipment easier for soldiers to use. His assignments took him to Panama, Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Germany. He especially treasured his time in the Airborne and the experience of jumping from airplanes.

After meeting Charlotte Horning while attending the University of Florida, Michael began the family that became his greatest source of pride. He was devoted to his wife, Charlotte, and their daughters, Rebekah “Becky” Lattin (1966–2025) and Deborah Lattin Shatto (Brian Shatto). He delighted in his granddaughters Carly Shatto (Fred Brown), Ashley Vincenti (Rich Vincenti), and Samantha Shatto (Katherine), and his great-grandsons Dominic and Christopher Vincenti, and Layne Brown, soon to be born.

At home, Michael enjoyed gardening and yardwork, sweets--especially candy—music, and television mysteries. Travels with Charlotte, his brother Christopher Lattin and wife Patricia from VA, took them to France, England, Scotland, and many parts of the United States. Family and friends knew him as meticulous, optimistic, and always ready to take on a challenge. He took pride in his work but treasured most the time he spent with the people he loved.

Michael’s life was one of service, resilience, and devotion. His family and all who knew him will remember his warmth, his example, and the lessons he shared—and will remain grateful for his many years of service to the country he loved.

Donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org