George F. Gatto

Master Sgt. George F. Gatto (Ret.), of Scranton, and formerly of Dunmore, died Wednesday evening at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Rose LoRusso, who died in 2000.

Born in Dunmore, son of the late Nicholas and Concetta Bevilacqua Gatto, he was a graduate of Dunmore High School, class of 1940, where he was quarterback of the football team. He then went on to get his degree from Scranton-Lackawanna Business College and serve in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He was a recipient of several awards, including a Purple Heart and the Silver Star. He continued with a career in the Air Force, where he earned the rank of master sergeant, and served in numerous locations throughout the world, including Mount Fuji, Japan. After retiring from the service in 1969, he was employed by Penn State University, Worthington Scranton campus, in the grounds and maintenance department, from which he retired in 1982. In addition, he served two terms as a Dunmore school director.

George enjoyed all sports, including Dunmore High School's events, where he enjoyed watching the girls basketball team. He also had been an umpire at St. Anthony's playground softball league, and was an avid New York Yankees fan.

He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle who cared dearly for his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Surviving are a daughter, Concetta Beck and husband, Randy Sr., Clarks Summit; two grandsons, Randy Jr. and Brandon; two sisters, Pauline Bisciaio and her son, Michael, both of Scranton; and Angela Cantafio and husband, James, Dunmore; numerous nieces and nephews, including his dedicated caregiver, Carmella LaRusso, Scranton.

He was also preceded in death by a sister, Rose Gatto, and four brothers, Vincent James "V.J.," Anthony, Salvatore and Frank.

The funeral will be Saturday from the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home, 318 E. Drinker St., Dunmore, with Mass at 9:30 a.m. in St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church, Dunmore. Interment will be private in Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Friends may call today, 5 to 8 p.m. To leave an online condolence, visit www.cgdfuneral home.com.