Albert Devito

Dear Rina,

Albert was like a father to me and i'm sure a lot of his students would say the same. He changed me forever. I am so sorry for your loss. J'ai eu l'immense privilège de travailler avec lui aux ballets depuis 3 ans et j'ai pu constater à quelle point il aimait la vie et, par dessus tout, sa famille. I lost one of my best friend last december of a cancer and Albert was there for me. I will always remember him. One perfect man.

Martin

Dear Rina, I can't tell you how sad and surprised I was when I received Dawna's e-mail. I want to express my deepest condolences to you and of course Raymond and Nancy. I wish you all a lot of strength to keep going through this difficult time. May the happy moments keep his memory alive and ease the pain of your loss. I am thinking of you. Take care of yourself. Suzie

Dear Rina,

Dave and I were really shocked to hear that Albert passed away on Sunday. We just didn't expect it so fast, and I can only imagine how shocked you and your family are at this time. My heart goes out to you and I wish you weren't going through this so terribly soon.
I'm glad we were able to visit with you and Albert in April because it had been too long since I'd seen him. He was a big influence on both Dave and I and we'll never forget his kindness and wisdom.
All the best,

Dear Rina and family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God comfort in this time of sorrow. We will always remember Burt and his talent, he will be missed. We pray that though the next few days will be difficult, your memories of Burt will bring comfort.

with love,
Antoinette, Domenic and Joanna Giammaria

Dear Rina and Family,
May our sympathy help to comfort you. May the wonderful memories you have be a source of help in what you are going through. When a spouse leaves it can cause a loneliness unlike any other. Thank God for your children and beautiful grands. We send you our love and pray that He will give you the needed strength.
Friends, Harry & Esther Dietrich

My deepest sympathy , when I found out , it was as if I hit a wall.
Even though I hadn't seen him for a while a quick picture came to mind , his smile and kindness truly made you feel happy to know him.

Although this is such a sad occasion, just the thought of Al and his antics in the music business make me laugh immediately. His energy would take over a room, his enthusiasm was inspiring , his quips unforgettable, and my favourite goofiness was the Abe Kestenberg/Al DeVito duo, playing one clarinet together.

Al, you are unforgettable! Nancy

I loved my Uncle Bert so very much. He was very inspiring to me and a shining example of what a hard-working, fair, kind, professional person looks like. He was very important in my life throughout the years and I have been blessed to have him as a role model and best friend. I will never forget his dedication to his art, his passion for teaching, and his commitment to providing opportunities for young musicians to excel. It has been an honour to know him and to be a part of such a wonderful family. My deepest sympathies to my wonderful Aunt Rina, and to my cousins Nancy and Raymond, who are like the sister and brother that I never had. Rest in Peace Uncle Bert. I love you.

Benny and I were deeply saddened to hear of Bert's passing. He was a great guy who leaves behind a legacy of love and great talent. We will miss him. We hold you all in our hearts.

Dearest Rina,
God will never leave you...he promises to carry you and your family in this deepest time of sorrow.
As the year goes forward, may the tears of today be replaced by memories of love & laughter that you shared with Bert...
Heavens symphony now sounds sweeter & JAZZier with their newest addition!
Oh what a time it will be when we are ALL able to enjoy HIS music TOGETHER!!!

With all our love & prayers,
Nancy & David Carter
Sam & Mary DiBiase

Dear Rina and Children,
I was deeply saddened to hear about Albert this week.
So many memories are coming to me about him.
He was a great father and husband and was so full of life and kindness.
He was always so supportive of me when we worked together in Montreal for years playing many concerts, shows and ballets....
He was a very fine musician and I wish we had stayed in contact...
May time ease your sadness and I will always keep Albert in my heart.
Much Love,
Jill Kirwan