Dominick C. Adornato Jr.

Happy Birthday Dad... thinking of you today and always Love, Mar and Zoe

Just thinking of you as the family will be getting together soon to honor you and your amazing achievements. You and my father are the two main role models I look too who show me the importance of discipline, dedication, and strength in life. If only I could really talk to you again... Anyway Congratulations for your award Nonno, mi manchi tantissimo.

Honoring you each and everyday. Happy heavenly birthday dad

Dominic and I were classmates at Stritch school of medicine school in 1961 and we shared the same fraternity, I enjoyed his sense of humor and his popularity at our school..... Thank you for sharing his memorial guest book

Dad Happy Birthday We miss you very much Love you

Dominick and I were classmates at Stritch school of medicine in Chicago, I enjoyed Dominick very much we shared a lot of fun times together in Medical School.... We were in the same fraternity in the northern part of Chicago

We have not stopped thinking of you.

We miss and love you.

A decade since you left us with lots of memories.

Dad ...Im proud to be working for the the same hospital you left such a legacy. Every day I have a nurse or someone that you worked with as my patients now. I find comfort and peace knowing that your around me and your legacy lives on through St. Joes Hospital. Till this day they still talk of you. Everyone knew you and regarded you highly. When I had no idea where to land my first PT job you guided me. I feel your presence at work. Love you always...Mar

Eight years. Just like that. It doesn't possibly seem that long since we said "goodbye." Thinking of you today and forever.

Miss you, dad, especially during the holiday season. I have so many great memories of putting up the christmas decorations with you. I can still smell and hear all that went along with that process over the years.

Dad, We miss you so much. We know that you are with us all the time watching over us. We love you. Dominick,Loretta,DominickIV,Amanda,Veronica, Alise,and Claire

Dad, miss you lots. But, feel so comforted by the wonderful letters you wrote me over the years. Glad to have those to look back on. Love you.

Dad We have been missing you for the last five years. We know you are with us all the time. You continue to guide us and watch over us. We love you. Dominick,Loretta, DominickIV, Amanda, Veronica, Alise, and Claire

Missing you 5 years later. But smiling at you.

Hello grandpa, today is my graduation day. I know that if you were here you would be so proud to see your second grandchild graduate and move onto college. I am so proud of calling you my grandpa and to say that I am an Adornato because we are a family of great people. We work hard for what we want and put the important things in life first. Were not selfish and greedy, we are a family of caring and giving. You guided all of us to the best of your ability. You may be physically gone but everyday there is always something that tells me that your still here.

Missing you.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Its been 2 years. the time has gone by so quickly! Thing are going one but i would be better with you :). I'm great and Bianca is too. I don't know where i heard thid saying " Do what you love and love what you do" but i think it was from you. You always knew i was going to be a vet and graduate from one of the best vet collages, Cornell. I thought and found thats something I love and I'm going to do it!!!! I'll never forget you and won't let you down
With Love,
Sofia

Dr.A..........It's been a year and I still can't believe your gone.My thoughts and prayers are always with your family and will forever remain so.You've touched many peoples lives in such a warm way,and we'll carry that in our hearts forever....

dear grandpa,
its already been a year since you have been gone. i can't believe it. the year has gone sooo fast. i remember the day my mom called my dad and my dad told us you past. i can remember the wake and funeral like it was yesterday. i still miss you.
love ,
grandaughter sofia

Hey Grandpa!!! I just wanted to let you know that about a week ago I got accepted into a summer program at Loyola University of Chicago. I am so excited and can't wait to see the campus. Over the weekend was Claire's first communion. I know you would have wanted to be there. We all miss you very much.

I love you Grandpa, Bianca

dear grandpa,
i'm so sorry i forgot to write this yesterday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!! hope u had a great b-day .
<3 love, sofia :)

i miss you grandpa. i am finally walking again.

Happy Valentines Day Dad...I hear your voice inside my head each and every day. Wishing you were here to share in all our lives...I still cannot believe you are gone. Love you always and forever,
Mar

To the Adornato family:. I wish to express my deepest sympathy, and condolences to your family at this time of sorrow. I was a classmate of your fathers' at Stritch medical school, and I enjoyed his wit and humor. Of course, after graduation I never did get to see Dominick at any of the class reunions, so I lost touch with him, but he certainly was a very enjoyable and energetic fun-loving gentleman. I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts and certainly he left behind a great legacy for you and your family.
With deepest sympathy,
LeRoy A. Smith, M.D.
class of 1965, Stritch School of Medicine

Dad,it's a new year today. The holidays weren't the same without you. But we watched the Three Stooges Marathon today with you. Baby Dominique is perfect and Dante and Valentina told me they missed you yesterday. You always said that kids don't forget good and bad people. They definitely fondly remember the time you spent with them. I only wish you could have met the baby and been able to see them all grow up. Valentina is still the knockout you told me she would be and Dante still cries going to school and is attached to his home.
Everyone says it's time to move on, whatever that means. Life is forever changed without you. May 2011 be a better year as we move on with you close to our hearts and always in our thoughts.

Hey grandpa! Today i am 16 and i still can't believe it! My birthday isn't the same without you but i know your watching me now as i write to you. I miss you and everyone missed you dearly.

Love you<3 Bianca

Dad: Loretta and I and all the kids miss you very much. The kids picked there Halloween costumes for school today. They missed your Halloween card this year. We love you very much.

Dominick III, Loretta, Dominick IV, Amanda, Veronica, Alise, and Claire Adornato

I DATED HIS SISTER MARIE IN THE EARLY 80'S.AGAIN SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS WAS TOLD BY THE DOCTORS SON MICHAEL C ADORNATO D.D.S.;P.C.FROM NEW HARTFORD,NEW YORK WHEN I HAD A APPOINTMENT ON 9/20/2010 YOU CAN CONTACT ME AT MY HOME 315-337-2290 OR MY CELL AT 315-225-7262 OR MY E-MAIL THANK YOU

I just learned yesterday of Dr Adornato's passing. I was a patient of Dr. and was so saddened to hear of this great loss to all who knew and loved him. I am forever grateful to have been under his care during the surgeries that he performed on me. My family and I will always remember his kind and gentle way. God Bless you all.

Hi Dad,

Yesterday was Isabella's First day at her new school, Park Street Kids. She walked proudly to the door with her Disney Princess backpack in tow and said, "Mom I will be fine". This is before I even got a chance to put here things in her cubby, talk to her teacher etc. I'm not surprised by this and I know you would not be either.

Love always,

Stephanie, Bella and Clive

Dr.Adornato,Well yesterday was my first time with a differant Dr.Am I happy No, did I find him kind and caring No,Will I walk into his office and be greeted with that HUGE smile I've been accustomed to Never,Will someday come that He would talk about his wife, his children and all his grandchildren the way you so proudly would,or sit and chat about your hunting and me telling you about my Dads hunting stories.Not ever.........Just wanted you to know You Can't Be Replaced,Your One in a Million to All that Crossed Your Path

dad- i have the most perfect angel watching over me. Not a day goes by we dont think or speak of you. Missing you is not even the word...

Dad- we were talking last night about when we all came back from Virginia's house on Halloween this past year and I put the cake on top of the fridge, not all the way, and when you opened the door it fell all over you!!! All over your robe and slippers and everything! That was hysterical dad and a memory I will never forget...I miss you so much and times like that..love always your daughter, Mary Ann

Hi grandpa, Its sunday!! We remember you would call every morning. Its hard to believe that your not going to call anymore. Remember cally?? Well she misses you to. Last night was pretty exciting, Cally had baby bunnies around 8pm. one was black, one was white, one looked just like cally, and one looked like hazel (who is the dad). Now all 4 of them are in heaven with you. Take good care of them. Love youBianca

To All of the Adornato Family
I read the new entries often and print them for my Mom, who also misses your Dad very much. I came across a beautiful poem that We wanted to share with you all. In reading this poem it reminded us of your Dad and his philosophy on life. We hope you like it
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all daily. Love & God Bless

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009

Dad- Life is just simply not the same without you. I realize and see even more now what an extroadinary father you were. I miss your gentleness and warmth and miss you telling me how proud you were of me. Life is beyond painful but you told me it would be ok and I trust you. The pain some days feels unbearable and I just want you back. i love you so much...mar

happy 4th of july grandpa i know u saw the fireworks from heaven and u look down at us i will never forget u and i'll always keep u in my heart . I LOVE U SO MUCH AND MISS U SO MUCH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ur animal lover ,
Sofia

Dad, fourth of July is not the same without you. We've been eating alot of watermelon. Five years ago today we were dancing away at my wedding. It was my last dance with you.
Dante finally pooped on the potty. He said he wanted to be a "winner" like you. Where that came from I have no idea. He told me to call you on the heaven phone.
Valentina is more and more like me everyday. You would love watching her eat. She really puts it away. Her vocabulary is so advanced.
The one in my belly is the real challenge though. I am suffering everyday to get through. December can't come quick enough.
I was finally able to have the lunch with you that we never got have the other day.
See you again soon. We all love you.

Dad- I wanted to wish you and mom a Happy Anniversary today!! I just simply miss you and miss seeing you.

Love you so much,
Mar

Dad- We all still cant believe you are gone. Happy fathers day. Words cant express how I feel knowing that I will never see you and the only place I will see you is in my dreams. You are always on my mind and in my heart and everyday i try to live and do things as you would do. Thank You for being such a great Dad and never allowing me to give up even when i thought i couldn't go on. Phil and I miss you everyday.

Love always
Ann Marie

My Dearest Father,
Happy Father's Day.I spent much of today reflecting on my childhood and remembering what life was like with you, mom, and all my brothers and sisters. Growing up in a big beautiful house and surrounded by the best of everything in life. We were and still are, rich in family. I thank you and mom for all you gave and taught me.All the life lessons you repeated again and again still ring loud in my ears.I am blessed to have been in the presence of your greatness my entire life. I miss you and need you everyday. You are truly amazing and are still somehow teaching me even after your passing. Just as you taught, I will always remember my family, I will always remember to be humble, I will always remember to work hard. I will do my best to make you proud.Stay close.
Your Loving Daughter,
Virginia

Dad, happy father's day. What a struggle life has been since we lost you. I am doing everything you have instructed me to do. You not being here has left such a void. I visit you everyday and still cannot believe you are gone.
Your obituary photo is from the day of my wedding. It was one of the best times as a family that we have ever had.

Today Dante and Valentina sat with me to visit you. When I started to cry Dante turned to Valentina and said, "What do you say Valentina? Mommy is starting to cry, so I think we should leave now". Dante turned to you and told you "Happy father's day grandpa. Good bye, I love you and I will take care of mommy".

My kids learned to love each other and take care of each other by your example. You always made sure that you made time for my kids. Dante still remembers you taking off your shirt and giving him a bath. I wish you had more time with them.

I'm still really sick with my third. I can't just call you to pick me up and take me to the doctor this time. You won't be there in your lab coat on December 13th to meet your new grandchild.

On this first Father's Day without you the dynamic has changed so much. Rest in heaven, but please help us all down here.

As always, you are missed.

Happy Father's Day dad. The profound impact you left on this world amazes me. Everday we hear more stories of the great man you were and how you helped people in ways we never knew ...but that was you... humble and selfless. I will always strive to be the best daughter and person I can be for you. I will never let you down, life is so hard without you and the days are painful but I can hear your voice pushing me to keep going. I miss you beyond belief..kisses to heaven.
Love Always,
Mar

Dad,

Alexis, Renee, and I miss you so much. Happy Father's Day! Over the past few weeks, hearing your patients speak so wonderfully about you brings me such pride. I can't express how much we love and miss you. Help us dad. Help us as you always have. Help us to take each step forward as you would.

All our love,

Joe, Renee, and Alexis

We see and feel the signs everyday that you are still with us. It's in the stories from the countless people who we hardly know that stop us and tell us just how much you meant in their lives. It's in the innocence of our kids. It's in the words that we read. But most of all it's the tears on our pillow at night that are soon dried by the joyful memories that we will cherish and never forget. Happy Father's Day Dad!! Love you, miss you - Marie, Dante, Valentina & Michael

Dad,

Happy Father's Day. We miss you and think of you every day. You lived such a full life that cannot be duplicated. Celeste, Michael, Christopher and I will always be proud of you as a father and grandfather. We love you always.

Our deepest Love,

Michael, Celeste, Michael II, Christopher

Dad,

Loretta and I as well as Dominick IV,Amanda,Veronica,Alise,and Claire wish you a happy Father's Day. We miss you so much. We know that you are with us every moment of the day. I constantly have your words in my mind "Do not quit and never say I can't". I know that you continue to make difference in our lives every day. I take such pride as having you as my father. I will alway strive for excellence as you did. We love you very much. LOVE Dominick III, Loretta,DomininickIV,Amanda,Veronica,Alise,and Claire Adornato

Dr.A......I honestly can't imagine the pain your "family'must feel.I'm not"family'not in the meaning of the word,I was not only one of your patients but you made me feel truly a friend,and part of your family.So often we'ld talk about your family and mine and you were always so proud carrying a smile a mile long.For once in my life I looked forward to having a Doctor's visit.I do know the hurt and the loss I feel and if that was timed by a 1000 I'm sure it doesn't come close to how your family feels,your a great person and a wonderful man.It's a great honor for me to know you.Rest In Peace Dr.A..Linda

Dad,

Everything feels so hard without you. I try my best each day to push ahead and do the best I can for my family. The pain that I and we all feel is just so immense. I find myself just trying to make it through each day doing the best I can. I understand what Marie and Stephanie are feeling and going through as they mentioned below. My worst pain though is thinking about the heart ache that mom is going through.

Yesterday, Alexis said to Renee that she wanted to be a neuro-surgeon. It made me smile as she wants to be like you. She created a small memorial box she keeps in her room. In it is some drawings she made of you and her, memos to you, and one of your handkerchiefs which she sprayed with your cologne before we left Syracuse.

I do know that you hear us and I do know that you will help us through. I miss you. I love you.

Joe

Dad,

As Marie said it is extremely hard here with out you. I start every day by re-reading your obituary and reflecting as I look at the memory wall to we have created to celebrate "our grandpa" in our living room. When I start to some what flounder I remember your drive and dedication, so I press on for myself and our family. You can always count on me to be there in anyway for our amazing mom.

Stephanie

Dad, it's so hard without you. I keep your picture on my computer all day knowing it's my only chance to see you. Dante keeps asking me if we are going to visit you in heaven hospital. I keep looking at my dining room table expecting to see you sitting at the end of it. Nothing is consoling. We all just miss you too much.

marie

Sending my condolences to the Adornato family. I am so sorry for your loss and have you in my thoughts and prayers

Could you please add more picture of Dr. Adornato and his lovely family? I have not seen either in years and am amazed at how well he and your mom look after all they accomplished plus raised this large wonderful family. I am so sorry for your great loss.

The Family of Doctor Adornato's,
I've been a patient of Doctor Adornato's for the past 18 years. I'm sorry for your loss. Doctor Adornato was a great doctor and surgeon with a super bedside manner. Doctor Adornato always had a good sense of humor which I will remember every office visit. Doctor Adornato will be greatly missed especially I will miss him. May god comfort your family in this time of sorrow. May god dry all your tears and comfort your hearts with the memories held deep within. My prayers for god love and comfort are with your all .
Angelo James Taddeo 2nd. Orlando Florida

Dr. Adornato, Celeste, Michael, Christopher, and the rest of the Adornato family,

I am so sorry for your loss. Remember, he is watching over ALL of you and this isn't goodbye...it's see you later.

Dr. Adornato, I bet he's very proud of you and all of your accomplishments. Thank you for everything.

Kady

Grandpa

I think about you every day. I will always remember everything you have told me. I will make you proud. I will miss you. I love you Grandpa.

Love your grandson Michael

Dear Michael, Celeste, Michael & Christopher
Our Thoughts & Prayers go out to you.
Micheal, your words to your father
were so moving it brought tears to my
eye's. I know he is looking down on all
of you and is very proud of you & your
family. We love you very much.
Nicole, Lance, Lance & Nicholas

Dad,

One thing I'll miss about you is you awesome sense of humor. An example of this is you would have nick names for all your son-in-laws.
When i was dating Clive, he would call you Dr. Adornato, you'd call him Sherlock. When we got engaged Clive called you Dominick, you called him Sherlock. When we got married he called you dad, but you still called him Sherlock. Finally, when we had Isabella, he called you grandpa, but you still called him Sherlock.

Dad we miss you everday but we know you are here with us.
Love,

Steph, Clive, and Isabella

I can honestly say I love Dr Adornato! Not only because he saved my brothers life in October of 2007, but because he treated me like I was a member of his family. He told me how he had a child pass so I knew he truly understood. He was the only Doctor who truly had an open door policy and we knew he was there whenever we needed him - and he was on many occasions. I just wanted you all to know the impact he had on probably hundreds of families. I am truly sorry for your loss but I know that my brother in Heaven is personally thanking him!!!

DearAdornado family,

I am so very sorry to hear of Dominick’s passing. We were Alpha Phi Delta fraternity brothers at the university of Buffalo. My remembrances are fond and happy ones.

Sincere condolences,

Adornato Family-

My thoughts are with you and the entire family. While years have passed I will never forget the father of such a wonderful family. I have fond memories of of spending my formative years with all of you. I am sorry that I couldn't get home for the funeral. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

My condolences to the family of Dr A. I had the honor of working with him for many years. He will be greatly missed, but always in our hearts.

From the family of Rod and Nelda cook Sr. is going to miss him very much. Rod has been seeing Dr. Adornato for 30 years and Save Rod from not ended upin a wheelchair the rest of his life. They always talk about deer hunting as they both were hunters. we will keep you in our prayers. Perryville New York





d

Dear Grandpa,
I am blessed to have you as my grandpa. You were and still are the best grandfather I could ever have. I will never forget the times Sofia and I would watch animal planet with you and when we would ask you questions about animals. Even though you arent as good of a cook as grandma, boy do you make good stur fry. You loved to joke around with us and tell stories to us. I will never forget the stories you told us about the hand and that wearwolves lived in the back yard. I will never forget the time you decided to dress up as a baby and Aunt Marie and Aunt Stephanies baby shower. it was so funny I almost peeed in my pants. You were always there for Sofia and I for most of our events at school like our first communions, some of our birthday parties, and my confirmation. I also will never forget the times you would tell us that you were the brother of Santa Claus and tell us you new him and had been to the North Pole. You used to call us on the phone being Santa Claus asking us what we wanted for Christmas. I will always remember the last words you said to me over the phone " Bianca you are Bianca DiVita and if you want to be a forensic pathologist then go for it. You are very smart and you can be whatever you want to be. I love." Grandpa I miss you dearly and I love you to.

-Bianca-

DAD, YOU ALWAYS TOLD ME THAT I WAS SPECIAL AND WAS PUT ON THIS EARTH TO DO GREAT THINGS. YOU TOLD ME TO EDUCATE MYSELF SO I WOULD NEVER HAVE TO RELY ON ANY MAN TO TAKE CARE OF ME. ALTHOUGH I DID MEET A FANTASTIC MAN WHO COULD, I DID EXACTLY WHAT YOU TOLD ME TO DO. YOU SHOWED YOUR SOFT SPOT FOR US GIRLS BY SAYING "A SON IS A SON TIL HE TAKES A WIFE, A DAUGHTER IS A DAUGHTER FOR LIFE". ALTHOUGH THERE MAY BE SOME TRUTH TO THAT STATEMENT, I KNOW YOU TRULY LOVED US ALL THE SAME. ALTHOUGH YOU WOULD HAVE RATHER GONE TO ONE OF THE BOYS FOOTBALL GAMES, YOU WOULD COME TO WATCH ME COMPETE IN ANY OF THE MANY BEAUTY PAGEANTS I WAS IN.

YOU WOULD ALWAYS TELL ME, "YOU GET ONE MOTHER AND ONE FATHER IN LIFE SO YOU BETTER LOVE THEM, APPRECIATE THEM, AND CHERISH THEM." HOW IMPORTANT THAT STATEMENT IS TO REMEMBER.

GOD DID GIVE ME THE MOST FABULOUS MOTHER AND FATHER AND I WILL BE YOUR DAUGHTER FOR ETERNAL LIFE.

YOUR DAUGHTER,
MARIE

He was a very good man to work with. I will miss him too. Jeanne Moskal

Grandpa

I love you. I wish I could have seen you when you were not in the hospital. Watch over me grandpa. I miss you. I want to be just like you.

Love Grandson Christopher

My Father

I am so honored and it gives me great pride to stand in front of all of you today to speak about my father. My father was and lived the American Dream. His brilliance became apparent at only 6 years old when he told his friends and family that he wanted to be a neurosurgeon. Even with all of his accomplishments and education as a neurosurgeon, my father was an unassuming humble individual. He had an aura of quiet confidence, knowledge, committment and dedication about him. As I was growing up, I justed wanted to be near him with the hope that maybe a little speck of his greatnesswould rub off on me. My father was a selfless,kind and giving man. He was many things to me: a mentor, a role model, a hero and of course the most complete father possible.
In a child's life a father can make all the difference. Dad made a difference in my life. He has given so much to me throughout my lifetime. He was always there for guidance, support, and to simplify the complexities of growing up. He was always there to watch me participate in athletics throughout my life from childhood through college. I have fond memories of my dad on the sidelines during my football games at CBA. A Vince Lombardi figure; before every game he would say "do it, to it boys". An alumnus of CBA, he loved the purple and gold.I am very grateful for those times. I always cherish them. He taught me so many things at a crucial time in my life as a young man: the importance of an education, loyalty, dedication, committment, honesty and respect for others.He had pride in everything he did in life. He committed himself thoroughly to his family, patients and friends. My father examplified all of the personal characteristics that I would need to be a successful father, husband, and professional in my life. He could say so much with very few words. I am very thankful and grateful to my father for the hard work ethic that he instilled in me in my life. He always told me "keep your shut, work hard,hit the books and good things will happen". He was right of course; he was my father. He earned and deserved evrything he had in life. Nobody worked harder than him and he loved it. A large family of ten children and practicing neurosurgery was an immense responsibility. He handled it like a champion. He accepted others and did not try to change them. My father never tried to choose his children's lives but instead prepared us children for the choices we would make. He always supported his children.
My father has a terrific sense of humor. He loved to tell stories and his laugh was infectious. He found humor within his family and loved to tease. He would walk out of the house with a football helmet on his head when he was teaching us how to drive and of course the cigar was sticking through the facemask. He truly enjoyed the comradery of his old friends from his childhood days and his days at CBA.
My father had his own unique sense of fashion. He loved silk ties, hankerchiffs, and cufflinks. He was somewhat contemporary but also very old school. His watch was an inexpensive Timex. He wore the same blue blazer in family portraits which were taken 15 years apart. He wasn't ostentatious or self promoting but he loved to brag about his children and family.
When I think of my dad for some reason what comes time mind is General Patton, Dirty Harry, and Red Aurbach. He was a leader. I think he believed he was Patton, leading his little army to Virginia Beach every summer; storming and conquering the beach. Tourists and waitresses didn't have a chance. We certainly took no prisoners. He was a protector and could serve up discipline.He loved guns as a collector and avid hunter. One in particular: the 44 magnum. The most powerful handgun in the world. On the edge of a cornfield in November he was Dirty Harry. When I was 16, I watched my dad hit a deer across a corn field in full stride through a snow bank with his 44 magnum ahich had a scope. It made my day. A true legend. He was a winner. He would light up that victory cigar because another life saved. You had so much purpose in your life dad. You carried such a heavy load for all of us.
Dad never complained. No matter what health problems you had you were always fine and feeling good. You did not want others to worry. You were such a talented healer. You gave so much of yourself, of your heart there was nothing left for you. That was you dad, always sacrificing yourself for others.
I have been so fortunate to have you as my father. I appreciate you and I am forever grateful for the opportunities which you have given me in my life. Dad you have set the standard so high that it cannot be reached. You were just to great. You can return to God and your parents as that youngand ambitious alter boy who had so many dreams of having a large family and healing others. You made your dreams come true DAD. A job well done. You are not on call tonight. Now you can rest. We will miss you very much. May God bless you and keep you in our hearts.

Your loving Son,

Michael

Dom and family,
I am very sorry for your loss. Your dad was a great man. I remember your dad inviting us in and making us feel like part of the family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Lynn Hargraves Kapell

Monday, June7th 9am - Holy Cross Church

Good morning.

I stand here before you with the greatest sense of pride. As I ask myself, how could I be so blessed to be the son of such a wonderful man. A man that built his future…his legacy…. brick by brick with sweat, courage, hard work, and determination. You might think my dad’s achievements were accomplished all on his own, but that would not be entirely true because behind my father was an equally as wonderful woman, …his bride…my mother. Growing up, my dad was definitely the head of the household, but for sure my mother was the neck and she had the ability to move the head in whatever direction she wanted. They were a truly remarkable couple.

My dad was a selfless man and always had a generous heart. He put mom and us kids first before all else and would work 24 hours a day if he had to for our family. He always said family was first. As he became a grandpa all 17 of his grandchildren became the crown jewel of his life. He loved each and every one of you and he will guide you through life and protect you all.

He was the most humble man as there will ever be…. And he used to tell me…. I want to be remembered as just a guy who drove a truck. Dad, I disagree with you there…. because you may have driven a truck but you were an extraordinary guy.

My dad taught by example and followed up with conversations about life’s lessons. At the time his stories seemed endless, but they are all coming back to me now as if he is telling me them again.

He was a man from the old school who had class, honor, and integrity. His moral compass was always headed in one direction and that was pointed always towards doing the right thing….not what was easy…but what was right.

He would want his sons to take care of mom and the girls and that is exactly what I intend to do. You have my word on that dad.

I know my mom; my siblings, the grandchildren and I will miss so many things about him. One of my fondness memories of him was when I was six or seven years old and I would sit snuggled up next to him watching television. He was like a big teddy bear to me and I can still feel the warmth of his body and the sense of security he gave me.

As I started off by saying, that I stand here before you with the greatest sense of pride...I think you have a better understanding as to why.

Dad, you will be forever missed, but not forgotten. Because I know you will walk with mom and all of us children and grandchildren in our hearts and minds leading us in the right direction throughout our lives.

I am so proud of you, dad. I adored you and would kiss the ground you walk on if given the chance right now. Thank you for all you did for me, my siblings, and our children. You did it dad. You created your legacy exactly the way you wanted. You are such a success. May your memory be eternal!

Your Loving Son,

Joe

I will miss your smile and your wonderful update of your family and grandchildren in which you were so proud to talk about all of them. My appointment was cancelled for May 18th at your office and the office staff said you'd taken a leave of 6 months. You cared for me after my back operation and you did everything perfect to get me on my feet once more. God Bless you ...you were always a gentle Doctor and your shoes will never be filled by any body else....praying for the whoe family at this sad time
Mrs. A L Battisti

We are truly humbled by everyone's generosity, and I know my father is no doubt looking down up on us and smiling.

There is so much I will miss about my father. I will forever cherish those nights that he came home after hours of standing over an operating table, he’d call for me from down the hall, and I can still here is voice – “Ant come massage my back and head for a few minutes.” OK dad. A few minutes typically turned into a half hour filled with his words of wisdom about life. It didn’t matter whether I was 16 or 26, these conversations always started with him letting me know how proud he was of me. In fact, our last “chat” together in this setting was just a week before he was admitted to the hospital. He spent a good deal of time recollecting about my childhood antics – even admitting now that he’d gotten a chuckle out of some of them. Then told me how touched he was to have seen me buy my first home just a few months ago. These are conversations I will never forget.

Another thing I hold close to my heart are the letters my dad wrote to me over the years. Reading these over the past few days has brought great joy to my siblings. My dad was a total softie inside and eloquently described his feelings in the written word. Here’s some of what he wrote:

“Always remember to work and when you’re tired work harder. It seems like yesterday I held you in my arms, heard you swear as a toddler, and watched you fall asleep with your curly blonde hair.”

Finally, I will miss my dad’s stories. As many of you know, my dad was a great storyteller. A craft that he mastered almost as well as his surgical skills. Even until the end, my dad’s stories made us laugh. Hours before he died, we met with his cardiologist. While the discussion was of course serious, the cardiologist recalled how my dad would come into his office for his checkups. Along with the usual medical chat, my dad would try to convince the doctor that he had a very strict work out regimen. My dad told them he would wake up early for a swim, followed by karate, and a 30-minute run. That gave us a good chuckled as the doctor recalled my dad’s story.

Well, Dad, now you have all the time in the world to do back flips, swim likes you’ve never done before, all while smoking the finest Cuban cigars.

Dad, may you rest in peace…

Our heartfelt condolences to the family of such an extraordinary man. We will be forever grateful for his expertise, care & compassion treating my husband for the past 17 yrs. We are deeply saddened. He is greatly missed and will always be in our thoughts & prayers. God Bless.

We've lost a Great Man & A Beautiful Person. May God be with you.

Grandpa,
I have been fortunate enough to be one of your grandchildren. You have been such a great role model for me my whole life. You made me laugh and you gave me advice that I will never forget and use throughout the rest of my life. I will strive to be like you, even though it will be very difficult because you set the standards so high. You always told me that you would be there for my first day in court, so even though you won't be there in person I know you will be looking down on me. I hope that I can touch the people around me like you did. You were a great man and a fantastic Grandfather. I will love you forever and there won't be a day that goes by that I won't miss you.

Love,
Angelica

Virginia and family, So sorry to learn of Dominick's passing. We had a chance to share old CBA stories while we were working out at St. Joes rehab last year. He was a great man and he will be missed. Nick Pirro

In 1978 after meeting with Dr. Adornato, I was scheduled for back surgery. At 10 p.m. the night before, an anesthesiologist appeared (many years later I realized it was Dr. Castro who I always thought was my angel that night). He said to me, "I'm an anesthesiologist, but I won't be on the job tomorrow when you have your surgery. I just thought you might like to know something about your doctor. He may be short in stature but he stands six feet tall in the operating room." With that he left, and with that I had peace. In those days we stayed in the hospital 9 days. A few days after the surgery, in the doorway, stood Dr. Adornato, yes, cigar in mouth, who asked how I was feeling. A man of few words, but a man with tremendously skillfull hands. Many years later he did back surgery on my son, Marty, as well. I have never forgotten my doctor. I send you all my deepest sympathies. Loretta Nowicki

Virginia, You probably do not remember me but I've never forgotten you, or your husband. I was at your wedding and we kept in touch for a while when Dom was in the military working toward his dream of becoming a Dr. We worked together at Hartford Ins. I remember when you told me what your plans were for the future I thought, Wow, Little did I know at the time he would one day operate on my husband Bill, not once but 4 times. I would always ask him about you, and hope that I would run into you, but you were probably very busy with your family. He was a wonderful Dr. and man. And by the way he saved Bills' life. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Dear Dominick, Loretta, and Family, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficulty time, remember you will always carry your Dads memories and special times with you always.
Lisa, Jim, Josh and Riley Bokshon

Stephanie, Clive and Bella,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
Love, Carolyn

My love to you all Linda Ehrich (Dennis, Matt, Peter, Courtney and Brandon)

My husband and I will always be grateful for Dr. Adornato. He implanted my husbands spinal stimulator and we will never forget him for that. He will miss his appts with you.

Dear Joe, Renee, Alexis and family,

I am terribly sorry to hear about your recent loss. Joe's dad was a great man and I still remember him as 'Dr. Mario.'

He will always be in our hearts.

Love,

Evan Gottlieb

Dear Virginia & Family,
My heart is deaply saddened by this loss. I have many cherished memories of Dominick. We shared many many hunting adventures filled with in depth chats as well as many laughs and great food. These memories will be forever vivid in my mind. He will be MISSED. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Adornato Family,
I was very hornored to have your mother and father at our wedding. I felt I was priviledged to have know him. Although we did not spend alot of time together he made it seem as if I knew him all my life. I am very very sorry for your loss and you are all in my prayers.