Andrew J. Prato

Andrew J. Prato, age 60, of Williamstown, NJ, passed away on January 25, 2026.

Andy was raised in Vineland, and later lived in Phoenix, AZ for two decades before settling in Williamstown. He had a passion for pipefitting and pipe welding and most recently worked for West Jersey Air Conditioning and Heating in Pennsauken. Alongside his wife, Andy had a love for traveling and adventure, especially their years as full-time RVers and later, as liveaboard sailors in Florida. He had an intense interest in geopolitics, history, astronomy and ancient alien/lost civilization theories. He loved the outdoors and most weekends he could be found hiking in the Superstition Wilderness.

Everyone who met Andy fell in love with him. In his trade, he was well-liked and well-respected by all who knew him. His personal and professional reputation preceded him everywhere he went. Andy was a profoundly compassionate and humble man who cared deeply about the suffering of others. He was a gentle and loving soul who gave people his undivided attention and always made others feel seen and heard. He was a patient man who trained dozens of young men and turned them into pipefitters. Andy was also a silly man who delighted in making people laugh. And he always lived by his values, even when it was hard.

Beloved husband and devoted caretaker of Mara M. Prato (nee McClain). Loving father of Alicia Embry (husband Nate), Jaimie Sullivan and Kristen Smith. Proud grandfather of Lily Embry. He was predeceased by daughters Sofia Prato and Teresa Prato. Son of Linda Prato and the late Andrew C. Prato. Brother of Rosina Prato, Judy Lynn Blakeslee (husband Jeff), the late Paulina Prato and the late Josephine Carter. Son-in-law of Tom and Carol Harrigan of Richmond, Virginia. He is also survived by niece Jess Blakeslee, nephew Angelo Carter and many cousins and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Tuesday, February 3rd from 1:30 – 3:00 PM at the Farnelli Funeral Home, 504 N. Main Street, Williamstown, where a time of sharing will be held at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Doctors Without Borders.

To sign the guest book online, please visit www.farnellifuneralhome.com