A funeral Mass for Deacon Lorrie “Larry” Damato was celebrated on Oct. 8 at St. Joseph Church in Manchester. Deacon Damato died Sept. 30. He was 89.
Deacon Damato was ordained on June 10, 1989, by Bishop Frank Rodimer in the Diocese of Patterson, New Jersey. In 1991, he and his family moved to St. Louis, where he was assigned to and assisted the pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Manchester. In 1992, Deacon Damato was assigned to Sacred Heart Parish in Valley Park, where he served until his retirement in 2005. He served his parishes by presiding at baptisms, funeral services and weddings. Additionally, Deacon Damato served by leading marriage and baptism preparation, visiting nursing homes and making Communion calls to the homebound. He also served as a spiritual director for Cursillo retreats.
In his professional career Deacon Damato worked in electronics sales and management. He also served in the U.S. Air Force. He was an avid Ham Radio Operator (WA2MGF) and radio-controlled model airplane builder, and he was a member of Aero-Pilots in Valley Park and the Knights of Columbus.
Deacon Damato is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Damato (nee Dunn); children, Michael Damato and Christine Damato; and four grandchildren.
