It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, husband, grandfather and brother, Donato Catalano. Donato passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on Saturday, August 31, 2024.

Donato is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Giovina. He was the devoted father to Martino (Bev), Pina (Mike), and John (Nancy). Loving grandfather of Melissa (Fernando), Lucas, Julia, Daniel, Sara, and Matthew, Great Grandfather to Tiego and Matias, cherished brother to Giovina Tulino, he was predeceased by his loving brothers Antonio, Luigi, Vittorio, Ottavio and sister Maria. Donato will be greatly missed by sister-in-laws, his many nieces and nephews, neighbours and many friends.

Donato was born in Biccari, Foggia, Italy and emigrated to Canada in 1955. Here he worked very hard across many fields, namely at Rowntree Chocolates where he quickly rose up the ranks but left to open a grocery store on College Street with his brothers Vittorio and Luigi. He was also an iron worker who had a role in constructing the Ontario Place Cinesphere, finally retiring as a Head Custodian at the Peel Board of Education.

His main goal was always to provide for his family. Together with his wife they built a loving home. Donato was an avid gardener. He loved and took so much pride in the bounty of his garden. Donato could often be seen riding his bike through the neighbourhood and he was friends with all his neighbours, often welcoming them into his home for a glass of homemade wine, an espresso, or maybe taste of his famous prosciutto, all while sharing his entertaining, often humorous stories. His loyalty to his family and friends was boundless. We are grateful for the loving care Donato received in his final years by his devoted P.S.W’s, especially Christine, and Danilo, and the comfort he was provided by his palliative care team in his final days. We are privileged to have had Donato in our lives as long as we did. He will be missed and continue to be loved by all who knew him.

Friends will be received at the Turner & Porter Peel Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., (Hwy 10, N. of the QEW), on Thursday from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m.

A Mass will be held at Sts. Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Church, 4070 Central Parkway (N. of Burnhamthorpe Rd. E.) on Friday, September 6, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.

Interment at St. Mary's Cemetery.

We ask that in lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Condolences & memorial donations may be made using this website.