Pat Donaroma

DONAROMA, PAT, Orlando. It is with great sadness that we
announce the death of a dear friend and brother, "Pat Donaroma". Pat passed away quietly Wednesday, November 8, 2006 after a brief illness. Originally from Boston, he served in the Air Force. After his discharge he settled in Los Angeles, California. A theatrical rigger by trade, he was elected by his peers to become the Business Representative for IATSE Local 33, a theatrical union that serviced all the big players and studios in Hollywood. Pat crossed paths with theatrical icons such as Dick Clark, Regis Philbin, Bette
Davis, Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin just to name a few. Pat relocated to Orlando with his family in the fall of 1989 and began his service with IATSE Local 631 as Assistant to the Business Representative. His jurisdiction covered the Walt Disney World property representing stage technicians, wardrobe and hair/make-up workers. "His retirement in January 2006 was bittersweet" said Secretary Treasurer
Kimberly Bowles. "He will forget more than any of us can ever hope to know". His gruff exterior was effective for the job, but those who knew him knew all the "gruff" was just part of the show. "Heavy D" as he was affectionately called, touched more lives and was so remarkable that those in his presence could feel his wisdom. He was a friend and mentor to so many. Assistant Business Representative,
Michael LaNinfa spoke of Pat as a father figure, no doubt a sentiment held by more than a few. While in Hawaii July of 2005, Donaroma was awarded the prestigious IATSE International Presidents Award recognizing him for his many years of extraordinary service. Standing at the microphone to accept the award Pat told the large delegation he was "Union to his soul." In August of 2006 he was again recognized at the Florida Labor-Management Conference, an annual event held in St. Petersburg, FL. Mourning his passing are thousands of extended family from the labor movement who will always celebrate his contributions to working families and the community. He is survived by his wife Constance (Orlando), and beloved daughter Tina (Orlando), sons Michael and Lenny. Services for Mr. Donaroma are scheduled for Saturday, November 11th at the Collison Family Funeral Home located at 3806 Howell Branch Road in Winter Park 32792. Visitation will begin at 1PM and funeral service will begin at 2PM. Flowers may be sent directly to the funeral home.