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John Fato Obituary
JOHN B. FATO, SR.
JOHN B. FATO, SR., born February 12, 1936 in Calabria, Italy as Giovanni Battista Francesco Fato and changed his name to John B. Fato "Johnny" when he became a US citizen in 1964. Son of the late Saverio and Amelia Fato; devoted husband of 47 years of Patricia Fato. Loving father of Lisa (Justin) Lanier, Amy (Jim) Steagall, Joann Fato and John (Julie) Fato, Jr. Grandfather of Lily Lanier, Bryan Clark II, Amanda and Jimmy Steagall, John Fato, III and Samantha Fato. Brother of Gennaro and Frank Fato and the late John Carmen Fato. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
Johnny and Pat owned and operated Royal Upholstery Company since 1960. Johnny was also a proud and devoted Montgomery County school bus driver for the last 14 years and he truly loved all of his students and co-workers. This was not a job for him, this was dedication and devotion. Johnny will be truly missed by all. He has touched hundreds of lives and changed the lives of many people. Life will never be the same without you.
Friends may call at HINES-RINALDI FUNERAL HOME, 11800 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD Friday, November 24, 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 25, 12 noon, at St. Andrew the Apostle Church, 11602 Kemp Mill Rd., Silver Spring, MD. Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Silver Spring, MD. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to www.doc.consult.org to assist cancer patients and their families or Evercare Hospice and Palliative Care, 10200 Old Columbia Rd., Columbia, MD 21046.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Fato
Virginia (sissy)
November 17, 2021
I was surprised to see this after all these year´s and with Pat gone. Love all of you.
Carol and Jessica Stallworth
November 10, 2007
Although we did not spend very much time with him, the times we did were full of joy, love and laughter. The memories of his kindness and unconditional LOVE will always be a part of our Spirits. Forever in our Hearts
Bonnie Parker
November 9, 2007
Hi! Johnny, you were not just my brother-in-law you were my best friend and I miss you a lot. I miss you stopping by my bus in the mornings and talking with me. I love you Johnny. Rest in peace.
Love Bonnie
Frank Fato
November 8, 2007
My beloved brother Battista always gave me encuoragement especially during my past ordeal.
He was caring and insightfull. He left a legacy not only how to live but how to face death in a dignified,courages manner. when faced with the prospect of dying he
wanted to visit the graves of our relatives and friends and the musoleum he would interned in. He knocked on their musoleums calling each by name saying he would soon be joining them.
What courage this "little Italian man" displayed inside him was THE GIANT LOVING BEING inside us all.We just need to cultivate it as my brother Battista did throught his lifetime.
Dio ti benedice!
your brother
Frank
Frank Fato
November 8, 2007
My beloved brother Battista always gave me encouragement, especially during my past ordeal.
He was caring and insighfull. He left a legacy not only on how to live but how to face death in a dignified ,courages manner. When faced with the prospect of emminent
death he wanted to visit our dead relatives graves and the musoleum he would be interned. He knocked on their graves calling each by name. He said he would shortly join
them.
What courage this "Little Italian Man" displayed inside him was THE GIANT LOVING BEING inside us all.We
just need to cultivate it like my brother Battista did throughout his lifetime.
Dio ti benedice!
Frank Fato
Kimberly Colwell
November 8, 2007
Johhny,
My memories of you, are a man who deeply loved his family, and your wife. You were always welcoming, and always with a smile. You had a wonderful, caring wife who we all know adored you till the end. You are with Nana and other angels, you will be greatly missed. Please look after all of us. We all love you Johnny........
Lucille Perrone-Ray
November 8, 2007
I didn't see you all that much, but I knew you were there -- and that was comforting. Things just aren't the same knowing that you're no longer here...but, you'll be there to meet me with open arms when I come Home. LOTS OF LOVE WITH ALL MY HEART, Lucia
Cruz Menjivar
November 8, 2007
It is such a pleasure to part of this family. Johnny was always so excited and animated it was hard not to smile and be happy in his company. And it was a pleasure to have known him. So many times I remember being at the beach with Tommy and we would hear our dinner bell, which was a pounding on the wall, to tell us the spaghetti was ready and come and eat. He was always looking out for us when we were there and we truly miss him and his smiles.
Sometimes we forget how fragile our lives are and how much we do need to love each other while we can. You are thoroughly missed by your family and everyone whose life you touched.
Amy Steagall
November 6, 2007
Dad, So what did you think of moms surprise party? 85 people!!! you were very muched missed,especially by me.(your favorite daughter). I can not believe that Nov.22nd will be 1 year that you left us. life is not the same without you,and you know what I am talking about.I really miss you,Dad Please keep watching over us!!! Love,Amy
Janet Colwell
November 5, 2007
It's hard to believe that it's been almost a year already.
Johnny is truly missed by everyone.
March 14, 2007
March 14, 2007
March 14, 2007
March 14, 2007
March 14, 2007
Bride, Groom and their parents
March 14, 2007
March 14, 2007
Lisa Lanier
March 10, 2007
Dad,
It has been a bit over 3 month's since you have been gone and I miss
you so, so much.
I was really blessed to have been given the world's GREATEST dad. You
were alway's there for me no matter what and I am so greatful that we
had the opportunity to talk about all of this in July when I was there
and that we got to laugh about these things.
I miss talking to you on the phone, no one else really likes to talk
for an hour or two the way we did.
People say that this gets easier as time passes, but I can tell you one
thing and that is that this has not been so easy. Especially when I go
back to Md. to visit mom and you're not there. I miss hearing you
singing, making jokes and laughing. Star and the fish are o.k. as you
already know. Mom's managing. She has to put up with us now constantly
checking on her.
Thanks for the car Dad and for memories that will never be forgotten.
Forever in my heart.
I love you with all my heart.
Lisa
Amy Steagall
January 1, 2007
Dad,Happy New Year! Christmas and New years just was not the same I really miss you! and your spaghetti.Jan.3rd is Amanda's Birthday she wants spaghetti so fax us some I know you can make a deal with God you were good at it when you were here.I Love and miss you very much!!!!!!!! Love,Amy
Patricia Hale-Savoy
December 21, 2006
John, You were truly my best friend in O.C. I recently visited
O.C. and was saddened by the fact
that I would not see you again until that day comes for me.
I will always remember your kindness, generosity, help and
friendship we shared. You always
helped me in any way that I asked.
Only God knows how much I miss you!
I wrote you a poem on December 9th,
but I just wanted to talk to you
again. To all of the Family, let's
be THANKFUL FOR THE TIME WE HAD
JOHN IN OUR LIFE!
liana d
December 19, 2006
hey uncle battista i love you sooo much and i cant belive your gone its like a huge nightmare i wish you were here so i can tell you how much i love you and miss you
love liana (celestes daughter)
John Parker
December 17, 2006
You were a brother and a friend for over 50 years. I will never forget all the good and crazy times we’ve had together. Most of them feel like they happened just the other day that is how vivid they are in my memory. Your kindness, courage, love, laughter, and crazy ideas will always remain in my heart and mind. I will miss talking with you about the boats, the fishing in Ocean City, and our families and friends in the program. Johnny, it’s been great hanging out with you all these years and I will miss you. I will miss you deeply.
Love, Tommy
Pat Parker
December 17, 2006
I’ll always think about the little Italian man who spoke so fast with your accent that even after 15 years of knowing you I still had trouble understanding you. I was always grateful for the interpretations from your wife, Pat and my husband, John. I’ll never forget the bushels of tomatoes and peppers you would find for us each summer and the famous Johnny spaghetti sauce and tomato/onion salad that we all attempt to duplicate. Johnny, the best, was just being able to watch you and my Mom carry on in your Italian language as if you knew each other forever. I’ll miss you. Love you.
Daniel Alonso
December 16, 2006
Dear Uncle,
Its a shame that you had to die, well at least you didnt have to suffer anymore. Thank you for being that litte italian man that always had jokes. You are lucky to see you grandkids(6).
Mr.JF lol
P.S. Love you too!!! Aunt Pat
Maura Parker
December 15, 2006
Dear Johnny,
All of us will miss you terribly. Though it is not the same, I know that all the good memories, and knowing that you are not suffering, will bring a little comfort to all who loved you. I know that you will always be looking out for Pat and the family, just as you had always done in life. May God bless you and the family............Love Maura
~Cathy & Diamond~
December 12, 2006
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
JOHN B. FATO SR.
FEBRUARY 12,1936 - NOVEMBER 22,2006
AFTERGLOW
I'd like the memory of me
to be a happy one,
I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I'd like to leave an echo
whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and bright sunny days.
I'd like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun,
of happy memories that I leave
when life is done.
Your life was love and labor,
your love for your family true,
you did your best for all of us,
we will always remember you.
To Our Christmas Angel, The shortest one with the biggest wings!
December 12, 2006
God sends His lovely angel tears
To us this time of year
They float and tumble through the air
And send out Christmas cheer.
Each flake He sends is special
From out of wintry skies
They paint a pretty picture
To soothe our weary eyes.
They glide and twirl as if to say
The season's just begun
And gently beckon to us
To join in merry fun.
Like sparkling gems, they fill the sky
And quietly take up space
They seem to flow in harmony
Attired in angel lace.
At Christmas time when all is calm
We look to things above
For angel tears and Christmas
To fill our lives with love.
A sacred star shines in the East
As Christmas day draws near
A manger scene, a Holy night
And gentle angel tears.
The children gather 'round the tree
To hear the Christmas story
As angel tears fall to the earth
To trim the earth in glory.
His precious tears drift to the earth
So everyone will know
A child was born in Bethlehem
It's written in the snow.
So if you get to feeling blue
And plagued by worldly fears
Just look outside your window
God's shedding angel tears.
Dana Gouin
December 12, 2006
Pat and all the family,
Wonderful memories of Johnny - always smiling! Always welcoming - I'll always remember him making his spaghetti sauce - which is the best! I'll miss him, but I'll think of him and smile always. Wishing you peace and loving memories always.
Eddie Amatucci
December 11, 2006
Johnny,
Our family is blessed to have you and your family as friends. I have such awesome memories of our family with yours when I was little and all the fishing we did in Ocean City. Eventhough are families grew and also somewhat grew apart as our lives moved along; I want you to know that the Amatucci's will never forget the good times we shared and your smile and caring nature. You were always ready to have fun and made us laugh. Thanks for being one of my favorite fishing buddies and teaching me a love for fishing that I have til this day. From Guy, Sue, Tina (our little Angel), Sandra and Eddie and our families - God bless and catch a big one for me up there in Heaven!
Terry Parker
December 11, 2006
To my best friend-Poncho,
I thank God for sharing you on this earth with us all. He truly blessed you and carried you through many challenges. Now my friend he says-come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls(matt.11:28-29). This is his gift to you. We will meet again one day but you are not alone in your new home. Your spirit will be with us always and you will never be forgotten. Till we meet again,Love always,your brother-in-law, Terry
Pamela Aronow
December 11, 2006
Dear Johnny,
It was a pleasure everytime I hung out with you. You always made me smile. Although I will miss you here on earth, I'm comforted knowing I will see you again one day. Love, Pamela
Frank & Pat Soper, JR.
December 9, 2006
Pat Fato & Family
We will all miss Johnny. He was always so cheerful and easy going. Our chairs which he made look like new will be cherrished by us forever. God Bless your entire family.
Patricia Hale-Savoy
December 9, 2006
J IS FOR JOHN, WHOM WE ALL LOVED
YOU WILL FIND,
O IS FOR OUTGOING, GOOD-NATURED
AND KIND.
H IS FOR HANDY, HE COULD DO MOST
ANYTHING WELL,
N IS FOR NICE,HIS KINDNESS, HIS
HEART, HE WAS SWELL!!!
F IS FOR FAMILY, AND FRIENDS, TOO,
THE LOVE HE HAD FOR ALL,
A IS FOR ASK, ANYTHING HE'D DO,
YOU JUST HAD TO GIVE A CALL.
T IS FOR TIME,THE JOY HE SPREAD
WHEREVER HE WENT,
O IS FOR # 1, ONE OF A KIND THAT
GOD SENT!
Connie Jones
December 9, 2006
Dear Fato family, I'm so sorry that Johnny's gone. I know he's no longer suffering but I miss him and his wonderful sense of humor. He was my Paisan (sp?).
julie statland-greenberg
December 9, 2006
I always carry you in my heart and mind.. I never remember a dull moment wth you, I have laughed with you, cried with you, yelled at you, and hugged you, all in the same 5 minutes sometimes. I smile just thinking about you.. I will never forget your genorosity, how you always welcomed me into your home and family. I know you are giving God and the angels a run for their money...
xoxoxoxox
Julie
Johnny Fato, III
December 9, 2006
Hello Nanootz,
Sami and I really miss you! We love you so much and you will always be with us in our hearts.
Johnny
Sandra Lee Parker Provenzano & Joseph Provenzano, Jr.
December 7, 2006
How lucky we are to have known you, Johnny! Your generosity and kindness touched so many lives. We will miss you terribly, though your spirit will always be with us. Our deepest sympathy to Pat, Lisa, Amy, Joann, John, Jr. and all the family. Love,
Jane Sutphin
December 5, 2006
John it was a great pleasure knowing you. We all had some great times together. Our sincere sympathy to Pat and all the family.
Love,
Bob, Jane and family
Lynn Buckholdt
December 5, 2006
The family has been so blessed to have Johnny in their lives for so long. His humor, wisdom, and kindness will be a loss for everyone (along with his sausage.) Those of us who were lucky enough to have had Johnny touch our life will miss him greatly. He will be forever in our hearts. Go in peace Johnny as the Lord has called you to him because he has a greater need for you now. We love you.
Mary Armstrong
December 3, 2006
Dear Johnny:
I will always remember what you once told me: "Men are sometimes dumb. A man only needs one good woman. I got one good woman - Pat." You sure did and Pat had one good man. We love you.
Mary & Earl
Sherry Long
December 3, 2006
Dear Johnny, I'm glad that you're not in pain any more, but now what do I do? Tell Joann what country I need to go to next. Did you tell mom to apply for credit because yesterday she got a piece of mail here,she was approved for $400.00,we all know that it had to be you because mom hasn't had mail come here in over 13 years,and yes your wife and Lisa saw the mail too ! We know that you just wanted to let us all know that everything is OK.Your son made Radar smile, he called him "RADIO".Enjoy the game with dad.I love and miss you, Sherry P.S.Watch over Amy and let her know that she will be O.K. because YOU ARE!
Amy Steagall
December 3, 2006
Hey DAD I REALLY MISS YOU! keep watching over me. Redskins play today keep your promise you said you would make sure they WIN every game for me.Ilove and miss you!love Amy
Virginia (Sissy) (Parker) Nimitz
December 2, 2006
Your love of life and funniness are what I remember the most. You always made us simle and laugh. You left nothing but good memories. Pat, you and your family are in my heart.
deborah ( debbie) brown
November 30, 2006
uncle jonny,
you wil always have a special place in my heart , though i wish i could have spent more time with i do know when god calls me that u will be there with open arms waiting to give me a hug .
love your niece
debbie brown
Gabby Alonso
November 30, 2006
Uncle Johnny,
I love you and I hope you feel better with angels in heaven.
I love you, Gabriela Alonso
(Gabby)
Rev. Philip Heap
November 29, 2006
Dear Fato Family,
You have a very special legacy from Johnny, that of loving and sharing generously your lives. Keep his memory alive by living like he did. Let's plan to all meet in heaven some distant day.
Love the Heap Family
Linda Poole
November 29, 2006
Johnny, you are loved and missed by all. You may not have been a tall person but your heart is as big as the universe. You will also hold a very special place in my heart.My prayers go out to Pat and your family. Rest in peace now.
Steve Parker
November 28, 2006
Johnny,your house will be a little less full without you,but your spirit and the memories will fill in the void I believe.Thank you for loving Pat and our family for all these memory filled years.We will all LOVE you forever.God will welcome you I know.Rest in peace brother.
Bernie (Radar) Long
November 27, 2006
I never thought I would see the day that you were not here to say "Hey Radio, show me how to use this!" But I guess that God needed some of his furniture reupholstered and he knew who the best was. You will be missed by many and admired by just as many. Hope to see you someday.
Candice & Aymeric Parker
November 27, 2006
We're glad we met you and we will remember you forever!
To us, John B Fato was the symbol of wisdom and respect younger generation should have towards theirs eldest.
Arrivederci Johnny
Bonnie Parker
November 27, 2006
Johnny, I will miss you and love you so very much. I'm glad you talked me into driving the school bus, I will miss seeing you on the road with your bus #247. GOD BLESS PAT and family. rest in peace Johnny
Lily Lanier
November 26, 2006
I love you Nanootz!!! I miss you sooo much! I mean Mr. WHAT!!! Love you Nanootz!!!!!!
Jeannie Parker
November 26, 2006
I will always remember Johnny's smile! My love and prayers are with you all. I know that the Lord will see you through this dark valley. God bless, Jeannie Parker
Amy Steagall
November 25, 2006
Dear Dad,
I will truly miss you. You will always be in my heart! I will miss watching the redskins games with you. I am soo glad you were my dad. You made the best spaghetti in the world! And I will really miss that! I know you're in heaven, and looking down upon me. But it won't be the same without you here. I will miss your phone calls and especially i will miss being with you in Ocean City (beep beep, beep beep.)Thanks for being a great and loving dad.
Your #1 daughter Amy
PS. You were the number 1 bus driver! Thanks for letting us ride in your bus today! Bonnie did a wonderful job! We all love you!
Nancy Brown
November 25, 2006
Uncle Johnny. You will be greatly missed. You were more than a relative, You were a dear friend. May the angels above welcome you to heaven. Love you always and God Bless you in your journey.
Cindy & Troy Gragnani-Budd
November 25, 2006
We were blessed to have had
an angle touch our lives.
With much love,
Jean & Jim Wade
November 25, 2006
John and Julie,
Jim & I are sorry of your lost. I just found out today (Sat.) by going online. If we knew sooner we would of been at the viewing with you.
Any thing we can do please call.
Shirley Parker
November 25, 2006
Dear Family, sorry we cannot be with you but our thoughts and prayers are. We love you all so much and we will miss Johnny greatly. All our love, Uncle Russ and Aunt Shirley
SHERRY & PAT 2006 WE LOVE YOU !!!
November 24, 2006
Christine Mansfield
November 24, 2006
You will be missed and never forgotten.
Michael Brown
November 24, 2006
Pat, I am sorry I could not be there but please know my thoughts are with you and the family always. I found a quote which I think is befitting of Uncle Johnny, "The Song is Ended but the Melody Lingers On." Johnny was such a wonderful, loving person and made a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to have known him. He may be gone from this earth, but never from our hearts and minds. May you find comfort in the arms of family and friends and strength in your prayers.
Lucille and Tim Ray
November 24, 2006
Johnny: I'll always miss you. You bring many happy memories to me which I'll cherish forever. You always had a smile on your face and had funny stories to share. I'm happy to have had a wonderful "nephew"-in-law like you. I really thought of you more like a brother-in-law. Tim and I love you. Tim feels happy and fortunate to have known you. May you rest in peace.
Pat, Lisa, Amy, Joann & Johnny: Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to each of you.
Carolyn (Parker) Hickman
November 24, 2006
To the family and friends that I haven't seen in about 35 to 40 years---
Sorry to hear about Johnny. He has always been a very good man. I was only 17 years old when we met.
My heart goes out to everyone.
Love eternally.
Joel Parker
November 24, 2006
Johnny we love you. We never forget your kind way when you welcome us in June 2005 at your home....Great moments !!!!!
All our sympathy and all our love to Pat and to your children
Joel and all the Frenchies
Jackie Parker
November 24, 2006
With love and sympathy
Terry and Jackie Parker
Stacy Alonso
November 24, 2006
Uncle Johnny, You were very special to me & Felipe. We will truly miss you.
Janet Colwell
November 24, 2006
Johnny,
Thank you for being such a great brother-in-law. You have left me with so many memories and good times that I will always cherish in my heart. You will never be forgotten and you will always be with me in my heart and my spirit. Everyone will deeply miss you. Love always and forever, Janet
A LIL ITALIAN MAN & HIS GUARDIAN ANGEL LILY!
Cathy Beamer
November 24, 2006
#1 Nanootz
We love this picture.
Love, Cathy, Willie, & Diamond
Sherry Long
November 24, 2006
To my brother-in-law, You will always be in my heart and never forgotten. You will be truly missed. You were loved more than you could ever imagine.
Cathy Beamer
November 24, 2006
Uncle Johnny,
Your are one of a kind and you definately will be missed. I always knew your wife was one of the strongest women in our family. I am sad to see you go, but I am happy you are at peace. I LOVE YOU! LiL Cathy
liana dodson
November 24, 2006
he was the best uncle i ever had and he always had a smile on his face
CELESTE DODSON
November 24, 2006
Uncle Battista, you had such an impact on mine and my childrens lives. We will love you and miss you forever and ever
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