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MICHAEL GATTO Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL GATTO
Nicole Duckworth
September 1, 2021
I am sitting on your dear Michael´s bench at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester MA. Thank you for this beautiful spot that I can sit and watch my son play. Wishing you peace.
Edna and Charlie Beaudoin
June 13, 2018
It has been 4 years since you lost your Micheal, I hope you will find some little bit of peace in my message. I live in Rockport, Mass and frequently bring my grandson to Stage Fort Park in Gloucester . We have discovered his bench at the playground and sit there talking about the cute little boy and the handsome young man he was. It breaks my heart every time we do so. Just yesterday we were there again and I had to find a way to message you (I do hope you'll see this). Charlie, 4 years, said "he's in heaven now with Papa Butch and Grandpa Chuck and they can talk to him" So you see Micheal is touching the hearts of strangers even now. God bless you
Elizabeth Sundy
May 7, 2015
I miss you every day, Michael. There are days where I go to text you and get your advice for something but then I remember I have you up above watching over me and it makes everything better. Thank you for always listening.
September 19, 2014
I have thought about your son and your family everyday since I heard the news of this tragedy. I also have a son at GSU and while I did not know Michael or your family, your son's picture reminds me of my own son. I will continue to pray for your family and may god give you the strength each day to carry on. You will be in my thoughts always.
A fellow GSU parent
Frances Parker
September 17, 2014
I am thinking of you every day. You are always in my prayers. Though it is of little consolation, there are many heavy hearts that continue to grieve with you.
Sarah
September 16, 2014
As a Georgia Southern alum, my thoughts and prayers are with the Gatto family. Michael seemed to be loved by all who knew him, and will always be remembered by his Georgia Southern family.
Laura Cegalis
September 16, 2014
I had left a message early on when I heard of the news of your son. We are all still holding you in our thoughts, and praying for you. I was so distraught a friend recommended I watch a video by Andy Stanely, "Good God?" Perhaps it will bring you some comfort. My daughter attends GSU and has been beyond words on this tragedy.
September 15, 2014
I am an online student at Georgia Southern and tears came to my eyes when I read about this extraordinary young man, Michael Gatto. I did not know him personally but was heart broken at the story behind his death. I pray that justice is served and even though Michael is in a better place, he did not deserve to be there at such a young age. I have so much to say but I will stop at this: Life is a precious gift that NO ONE has the authority to remove...prayers to the family...Sandra C
Jan Holmes
September 14, 2014
Still think of you and your family every day. Just wanted you to know your are in my thoughts and prayers. I hear from my daughter there are some good changes going on at GSU. I am glad but the cost of it is very heartbreaking.
September 14, 2014
Dear KathyLee and Mike,
I just want you to know that we are thinking of you. We are so sorry that this tragedy has happened to your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Claudine and Tom Gover
September 13, 2014
Sincerest condolences.
Betty,Peter and Martin Sorger
September 13, 2014
My condolences to all of Michael's family and extended family. Special thoughts and prayers to Joe and Catherine Zilfi from me to you.
joe gormley
September 10, 2014
My most sincere thoughts are with your family at this time and forever. I am a GSU mom and didn't know your son, but he seemed to be a wonderful young man that truly enjoyed his life while he was here. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Terri & Shelby Tippett, Roswell
Cynthia May
September 10, 2014
To Michael Gatto's Family & Friends,
My heart and my mind has been consumed with this tragedy since it happened. I get immotional every time I think about Michael and all involved.
I have family at GSU and she is only 18 years old. She knew Michael briefly and spoke very well of him.
I can tell that Michael was an accomplished young man and touched many lives during his 18 years here.
I pray that some good will come of this tragedy and that whatever it is, it will honor Michael's name and goodness, for his legacy.
I also pray that you will find forgiveness in your hearts so that you can move forward for Michael and his memory.
"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would not have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you may be also. John 14: 1-3
A Psalm of David:
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his names sake.
Yea, though I walk through the vally of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalm 23
Keep Michael's spirit with you, cherish your memories, peace, strength, comfort and love to you all.
Melanie & Rich Madden
September 10, 2014
While we do not know your family, we want to tell you how sorry we are for the tragic loss of Michael.
Lauren Stepp
September 9, 2014
We love you Michael.
September 9, 2014
So very sorry for your loss. My heart grieves for the brutality he suffered. He will remain in your heart forever. Ginny sister of Maria
Xavier Green
September 8, 2014
As a GSU alumni I would like to express my deepest condolences for your son. I hear he was such a spirited guy with a great heart. Heaven has gained an angel. My prayers go to you, the Gatto family. Rest in peace my fellow Eagle.
Stephen plancher
September 8, 2014
Michael you will be miss... make all the angels laugh.... that was the 4years in high school with you...
The Martin Family
September 8, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gatto family.
Clare Foshey
September 8, 2014
To the Gatto and Zilfi family, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. In work at Brockton Hospital Cathy always spoke so proudly of her grandchildren that I feel I've met each one of them. I especially remember how proud she was of her grandson Michael. My heart is very heavy to think of such a loss to this world. I pray for some type of peace within you all during this horrible time.
Kristin McGregor
September 7, 2014
I am a GSU mom who knew Michael only through the good things I've read about him in the last ten days. My heart aches for your family. Please know that I, and countless others, pray daily for God to grant you comfort, peace and strength in the difficult days ahead. You are loved and held close in our thoughts and prayers.
Jenny Gerding
September 7, 2014
I'm so sorry for your pain. No parent or sibling should have to endure the loss of a son, or brother at such a young age. Michel's Legacy Guest Book is evidence he touched not just our community, but the entire state. SFHS has another angel RIP MIchael.
God Bless
The Gerding Family
September 7, 2014
Michael was one of our son's roommates at GA Southern. Everytime Peyton contacted us, we heard about how much fun school was and he loved his roommates. Less than a week into school, Peyton told me, "Mom, this is the "group." We have already decided we are getting an apartment together next year. You have to meet my roommates. This Michael Gatto kid is great!" Peyton's sentiments reflect the same from all of Michael's friends who spoke yesterday- he was their fast friend as he was for everyone he met. Peyton was blessed to get to know your son. Your family is on our constant prayers. Michael was a true blessing an a joy.
Our deepest sympathy to your family.
~The Danbom Family, Mike, Carrie, Peyton and Emily
Frances Parker
September 7, 2014
I would like to express my condolences to your family. I pray that God will give you all the strength to support each other as you deal with this tragedy. I didn't know your son, my daughter is a Georgia Southern student who didn't know your son butlike many is having a difficult time dealing with his senseless passing. I myself am angered by Michael's murder. We will be praying for your family and friends. We will be praying for justice for Michael and strength for you all on this journey. Please know that you are loved by those who know you and those who don't, yet still feel your pain. We pray for peace for you all.
September 6, 2014
Mike and Kathy Lee and the Gatto and Zilfi families,
May Michael rest in peace as God gives you the strength to carry on.
Brian and Janis Murphy, Norwood MA
Amy Horne
September 6, 2014
Dear Gatto family,
No words can come close to expressing how our hearts go out to you all. While I did not know Michael, my daughter Emily did, and I wish I had! What a wonderful young man you raised. It sounds like he lived life to the fullest and I'm certain that you have a forever guardian angel in Michael. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Horne family; Mark, Amy, Emily and Ally
The Jurick Family; Mike, Lorie, Michael & Meagan
September 6, 2014
We are thinking of your family during this difficult time and lifting you all up in prayer. After just two weeks at GSU, our sons had become fast friends, which sounds exactly how Michael lived his life - open, welcoming, an amazing friend. We hope you can find comfort in knowing he touched so many and that his laughter and smile will remain with us forever.
Mary Reese
September 6, 2014
Many prayers for your family. I am a GSU mom and my prayer is that you remember that God created us for way more than just this earthly life. May you feel God's strong embrace in the coming days, weeks and months and know that you are loved and supported by so many friends/family and strangers.
Hannah Herron
September 6, 2014
Michael was a good person. And his smile could light up a room. Some people ask why? Why did it have to be him? Why god why? And we might not understand it now that he had to go so quickly. Prayers to the Gatto family. LOVE YOU MICHAEL. Stay strong up there. One day we will all be up there with you. <3 <3 Love you.
Laura Cegalis
September 6, 2014
I learned of the loss of your son, Michael, from my daughter at Georgia Southern. Many tears and prayers have been shared amongst me and my friends for your family at this tragic time. May God bless you all and help to see you through this time. God Bless your family.
Sean Garnet
September 6, 2014
I will always remember a fine young man. At only 15, he made me feel as though he had known me forever, although we had just met. May the abundance of love your family has, help bring you strength in this most difficult of times. My heartfelt thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to Michael, you and your families.
Suzanne, Drew & Ben Elder
September 6, 2014
My family's heart is broken. I remember Michael at our house as a 3rd grader full of smiles and energy. Please know your family is in our thoughts and prayers daily.
May God and the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
David Currie
September 6, 2014
Mike and family, please accept our deepest sympathy, facing what we never want to face is one of the most difficult things in life that we are forced to do. I'll be praying for you especially today. Our LORD and savior knows your every feeling of despair and grief; and He is 100% available any second for your requests for reasoning and comfort through this tragedy. Always available: David, Mary, Shane and Mason Currie
Joe and Angie Staiti
September 6, 2014
We are heartbroken over the loss of Michael. He was a nice, sweet young man. Our thoughts and prayers for your family. Nicholas would also like to express his sorrow for you at this time.
Christine Roberts
September 5, 2014
I didn't know your son but my best friends daughter went to high school with him. I felt her grief and my prayers are with you. Tonight she shared a beautiful video of the balloons being released at the football game. Everyone was chanting his name.
September 5, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with you. We don't know your family, but wanted to express our heartfelt condolences. I have heard so many wonderful things about your son and his beautiful smile. I hope you can find happiness in your memories.
The Mom of a GSU student
Mike, Cinde, Connor and Brie Wakefield
September 5, 2014
Our hearts and prayers are with the Gatto family at this sad time. I can still see sweet Michael running to the bus stop with his backpack on his back almost larger then him. Hold on to your memories and may God grant you peace. RIP Michael.
September 5, 2014
We were heartbroken to hear about Michael. You are all in our prayers.
Randy and Lori Cook
Frisco, TX
September 5, 2014
Mike, Kathy Lee and family,
I cannot stop thinking about you. I am deeply saddened to hear about Michael's very tragic death. I am keeping you all close to my heart and praying for you daily.
The girls wish yo express their sadness as well.
Donna Floyd, Hannah and Kayla Floyd
September 4, 2014
We are so saddened to hear of your loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to you.
Todd & Christine Lunsford
September 4, 2014
To All The Members of the Gatto and Zilfi Families: WE are so shocked and saddened by Michael's tragic death. Words cannot describe our deepest and saddened feelings for all of you. Our hearts and prayers are with all of you during this personal loss.
Our most sincere condolences from the
Carlo & Mary Venditti Family
Norwood,Massachusetts
Bob and Ann Maccarini
September 4, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to
all. Anne spoke of Michael often , she was so proud of him .
September 4, 2014
There are no words... I don't know your family, but my sons went to Georgia Southern. May you find some peace in the days and years to come. Just know that so many people care and our hearts are broken with yours. With love in Christ's name. A Savannah mother.
September 4, 2014
Michael , Katie lee and family
It's a long time since you lived in deerlake but I have many memories of you.
My heart is broken with sadness for the loss of your beloved son
May he rest in peace and you also find peace.
Gerardine munroe and the sheehan family.
The ICE
September 4, 2014
We were heart broken to learned of the tragic events that led to the passing of Michael. He was a part of The ICE family for the past two years - his smile, humor, and full of life personality will be greatly missed
The ICE management and staff offer our condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Gatto family, during this difficult time.
The Dennards
September 4, 2014
My son was Michael's roommate at Ga Southern and he said he was the nicest guy you could meet. When we were moving Kyle into the dorm, I do remember Michael introducing himself and shaking my hand, what a gentleman. Your family is in our prayers.
Stacy Prettyman
September 3, 2014
May your family feel a peace that passes all understanding as so many are mourning the loss of your son with you. My son Mitch, a freshman at GSU with Michael, has told me what a positive and "genuinely nice person" he was. "Always smiling." My heart is broken for you.
Carrie Meersman
September 3, 2014
Our family extends our deepest sympathies in the loss of your Michael. May you hold tight to each other and be able to feel the prayers and love of those around you, known and unknown, who mourn with you. Our hearts ache for you.
The Griffin Family
September 3, 2014
Our family is so very sorry for loss of your sweet son, Michael. We have thought of your family often and will continue in the days to come.
Your son had a sweet engaging smile that will be missed.
Jan Holmes
September 3, 2014
Words can't express the how much I have thought of your family this week. I have a daughter at Ga Southern and didn't know your wonderful son but it has really affected so many people. I can't even imagine what your family has been through. Just wanted you to know you are in many peoples thoughts and prayers. Such a sad, sad situation. Prayer to you and your family to make it through this.
theo wilson
September 3, 2014
May God be him and family thru such a tough time. Rest in peace.
Katie Zeitlin
September 3, 2014
My family is very sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
September 3, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. Michael was a wonderful person who will be missed. We enjoyed working with Michael at the Ice.
The Normandeau Family
September 3, 2014
Our prayer are with your family and all who knew Michael. Our daughter Lauren was truly blessed to know Michael and will cherish the memories forever. He was such an amazing friend to so many, and brought so much happiness and joy of life to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
The Klein Family
September 3, 2014
Our prayer are with your family and all who knew Michael. Our daughter Lauren was truly blessed to know Michael and will cherish the memories forever. He was such an amazing friend to so many, and brought so much happiness and joy of life to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
The Klein Family
Lisa Patterson
September 3, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gatto Family during this difficult time. I pray God gives you the strength and comfort to go on for your other children. Know Michael will be watching you so stay strong!!!
a grandmother
September 3, 2014
The death of Michael has touched so many people. Those who did not personally know him or the family have morned your loss. My grandson grduated with Michael and said the most wonderful things about him. My prayers are with you and the family at this time. This has saddened all those with sons, grandsons,and brothers...
Cole and Joyce Gaudet
September 3, 2014
Saddened to read of the senseless tragedy that took young Michael's life. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Our hearts go out to the entire Gatto family as our friendship of over 60 years has allowed us to be aware of the
wonderful accomplishments of the families.
With Love and Sympathey,
Kris dower
September 3, 2014
My deepest condolences for you and your family as you go through the worst thing in life. May God hold you up in this time of deepest despair.
JOAN NISSLEY
September 3, 2014
So sorry for your loss, may the Lord's peace & grace hold you through this difficult time & the days to come.
Jackie Norton
September 3, 2014
My heart just breaks for your family, I do not personally know you, however my daughter Marci was really good friends with Michael. May God provide peace and embrace your son! Know you have a community of people here in Cumming that may not know you BUT certainly are praying for healing of your family.
September 3, 2014
Did not know your son Michael but have a daughter at South Forsyth and can't imagine what your entire family is going through. May God give you strength and guidance during this very difficult time. God Bless! Cathy Frangipane
September 3, 2014
Michael and Kathryn, no words can take away the sorrow you must feel.
3 of the most powerful words you can speak after the loss of a child-I will survive.
Jim and Kathy Callahan-Atlanta
Jill Valderrama
September 3, 2014
I did not know your son but I have thought of Michael everyday since this horrible tragedy. Please know that you are in my prayers! My deepest condolences.
September 3, 2014
To the Gatto family, Thoughts and prayers coming to you. May
God keep you strong.
Michelle Warne
September 2, 2014
On behalf of my family, we were so saddened to learn of the loss of Michael this past weekend. Our hearts ache for what you must be going through. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Anne Smith
September 2, 2014
I'm also a GSU mom and feel a need to reach out to the Gatto family and express my condolences. I'm so very sorry for your tragic loss. Sending a blanket of love your way.
Joe and Julie McCorkle
September 2, 2014
Parents shouldn't ever have to go through what you are going through right now. You're in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.
Kaye House
September 2, 2014
You and your family are surrounded by love during this difficult time.
Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same. Your son brightened my children's lives just by being himself.
Julia, Michael, Lexi & Josh Steger
September 2, 2014
A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on. Please accept our condolences, Michael will not be forgotten. Sending love and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time.
Gabrielle, Emily, Julie & David Johnson
September 2, 2014
To the Gatto Family,
We embrace your family during this very sad time; sharing your grief, and praying for comfort and peace. Michael's light shined brightly in this world and continues to shine in our hearts and memories of him. Michael shines his light down from Heaven to his family and friends, sending them simple signs that he is with our Lord and Savior. May the love of family and friends soften your sadness, and may cherished memories of Michael bring you comfort.
September 2, 2014
Dear Gatto Family,
I worked with Vincent a very long time ago and wanted to extend my sympathies to him and his family. There are never words to explain the passing of such a young man.
Alan Greenstein Norfolk, Ma.
L.W. McDonald and Son Funeral Home
September 3, 2014
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Zotta Family
September 2, 2014
As a SFHS family, 2014 graduate and current sophomore, may you know that many have the Gatto family and Michael's friends in their thoughts and prayers. We pray that God gives you the strength to get through this most sorrowful time. God Bless You All!
Charlotte McCarthy
September 2, 2014
So sorry to read of your son's passing. Having read the Boston Globe and knowing someone from Cumming, I felt compelled to write to express my sincere sympathy. The loss of a child is unbearable and I know only too well having lost a grandson at the age of 5 1/2. My prayers and thoughts go out to all of you.
Your loving community
September 2, 2014
Dear Gatto Family,
We pray and wish for you this day, that Michael's brilliant light of life shines brightly embedded in your heart during these dark hours and in the days to come. Your hearts are cracked wide open and we hope what will fill them in time, is your handsome, gorgeous, funny, brilliant, son's spirit. He lives on in your hearts and our hearts of your community. We are embracing your family and shouldering your pain and suffering with you, lifting you up in your despair, but also rejoicing in the joy your amazing child brought to our earth..all those that loved and knew him all all those that didn't have the honor. May you feel the warmth of God's, Michael's, and your community's arms around you, now and in the days ahead. He will forever be a beacon.....especially for our children. We are on our knees for your sorrow.
With Love, The Buck's
September 2, 2014
Michael will live on in the hearts and minds of the many people he touched with his life, his smile and his wonderful spirit.
We wish you peace and strength during this difficult time.
Keith and Connie Hansard
September 2, 2014
Love and prayers to the family and to all who had the privilege to know Michael
DiBenedetto Family
September 2, 2014
Mike and Katherine, we are in shock and complete disbelief. Our hearts go out to you and your family. So very sorry for your loss.
September 2, 2014
Joe and Catherine, my heart goes out to you. So very sorry for your loss.
Elaine Jacobs Foley (class of '57)
September 2, 2014
There are no words....your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Chris & Lori Sholota
Glenn Stoloff
September 2, 2014
Deepest condolences to the entire family. So sorry for your loss.
brittany Horn McLamb
September 2, 2014
An eagles soul will always soar. Forever an Eagle. Forever in the Eagle Family.
So sorry for your loss. We send our love and prayers to your family.
The Horn/McLamb Family
brittany mclamb
September 2, 2014
An eagles soul will always soar. Forever an Eagle. Forever in the Eagle Family.
So sorry for your loss. We send our love and prayers to your family.
The Horn/McLamb Family
September 2, 2014
Dear Vince: Please accept my deepest and sincere sympathy upon the passing of this lovely and beautiful young man. My prayers area with all of you.
Eileen Cianci
Carol Green Hathaway
September 1, 2014
Praying! I am so sorry for your loss!
Mo Gilbertson
September 1, 2014
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. So sorry for your loss.
Peggy Peels
September 1, 2014
So sorry!
Kathleen Rapp
September 1, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Gatto Family during this most difficult time. Praying that God gives you strength and comfort. Our deepest condolences.
Donna M
September 1, 2014
My heart and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Michael Gatto. I did not know him or the family but I felt compelled as a GSU parent to express my condolences. I pray that God gives you some comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Julie Sharp
September 1, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family during this difficult time.
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