JOHN B. AMATO

DELAWARE — John B. Amato, 51, of Delaware, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016, at home.

He was born on March 29, 1965, in Delaware to Carmel M. and Marialyce (Hartsough) Amato. John was a graduate of Delaware Hayes High School in 1981. He first worked with the Flexible Corp. as a painter and then was self-employed as an auto body repairman, for the last several years worked in the maintenance dept. of Cushman Wakefield in Delaware.

A true outdoors man, it was there where John was the happiest with a fishing pole or gun in hand hunting deer and turkey. Fun loving and a jokester, he was genuine to his core with a happy go lucky personality. John was also a member of St. Mary Church in Delaware. In addition to the outdoors, John treasured time spending with his kids.

Tragically both his parents, 14-year-old daughter Amy M. Amato, 5-year-old daughter Carly L. Amato, and niece Erica M. Amato, all died from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in July of 2000. He was also preceded in death by an infant child. Needless to say through it all even though John's heart was large, it was heavy.

He is survived by his children, Toni M. Cochenour of Delaware, Carmel and Chance Amato, Jonathan Amato; 2 granddaughters; siblings, Greg (Amy) Amato of Santa Monica, Calif., Elaine Amato of Delaware, Tom (Susi) Amato; and his twin brother, Joseph (Crissy) Amato, all of Delaware; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Friends may call 2-5 p.m. on Sunday at the Snyder-Rodman Funeral Center, 101 Valleyside Drive (formerly 1510 W. William St.), Delaware. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m. Monday at St. Mary Church, 82 E. William St., Delaware. Rev. Michael Watson Celebrant, and burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery next to his daughters.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.