William J. Donato

West Albany, NY-William J. Donato, 90, entered Eternal Life Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at Shaker Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Albany, he was the son of Frank and Helen Mink Donato. Bill was a longtime employee of the former Tobin Packing Company in West Albany, where he spent 28 years. He also worked for over 20 years at the New York State Thruway Authority. He was a US Army Korean War Veteran. Bill was a Member of the West Albany Italian Benevolent Society where he was a devoted member for over 70 years. He was a member of Trout Unlimited, Clearwater, Florida, and the Capital District Fly Fishers. He enjoyed finding new creeks with a box of flies and flyrod in hand. Within schools, he was a well-known Fly-tying instructor as he shared his knowledge of different types of flies. He was an exceptional fisherman and truly loved the sport. Additionally, in his early years he enjoyed bowling and always embraced family gatherings. He was the dear husband of the late Rose Gallucci Donato; beloved father of William J. Donato, Jr (Lori); dear brother of James Donato (Joan) and the late Frank “Donuts” Donato (late Antoinette); brother-in-law of the late Frank "Sparky" Gallucci and Louis "Sub" Gallucci Sr.; step grandfather of Alysa Brino, Austin Brino, and George Cowan. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends that he held dear to his heart. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Bill’s family Tuesday, January 2, 2024 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Please enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot entrance only. Funeral services Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 11:00 am at Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 1 Maria Drive, Loudonville, NY 12211 where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal will be held at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery immediately following the Mass. To leave a message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com Those wishing to remember William J. Donate in a special way may send a contribution to Christ Our Light Catholic Church Food Pantry, 1 Maria Drive, Loudonville, NY 12211.

Tributes

William J. Donato

October 17, 1933 - December 27, 2023