Benny D. Abate

Benny D. Abate, 78, of Worthington, formerly of Natrona Heights, Harrison, died at 11:45 p.m. Tuesday (Oct. 14, 2003) in Meadowlake Manor in Worthington, where was a resident the past year.

Born May 17, 1925, in Kittanning, he lived in Natrona Heights for most of his life. He was a 1943 graduate of Kittanning High School. An Army veteran of World War II, he served in three major conflicts and received the Bronze Star. Prior to retiring in 1979, he was a carpenter 29 years for Allegheny Ludlum Steel Corp., Brackenridge works. Mr. Abate was a life member of St. Mathias Worship Site, St. Joseph Parish, and member of the American Legion, both in Natrona, Harrison. He enjoyed golf, traveling, crafts, carpentry, American History and reading history of World War II. Survivors include a son, Ben (Dana) Abate of Lower Burrell; a daughter, Mrs. Rita (Ron) Sistek of Ford City; a sister, Josephine Petruzzi;and a step brother, Paul Nicastro of Lyndhurst, N.J. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marie Kolwitz Abate; his parents, Vincent and Mary Porco Abate; and two brothers, Adam and Neil Abate. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today in the FRANK F. GIGLER FUNERAL HOME, 2877 Leechburg Road, Lower Burrell. Christian Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Friday in St. Margaret Mary Roman Catholic Church, Lower Burrell, with the Rev. James Gaston officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell.