Pasquale R. Maritato

ALBANY – Pasquale R. (Pat) Maritato, 82, died Saturday, November 8, 2014. Born in Brooklyn to Italian immigrants, Gennaro and Antonette (Maio) Maritato, he grew up in a 4 room apartment with his parents and six siblings. Despite his impoverished past, he always spoke fondly of his youth, and the experiences the family shared during that time. After service in the Air Force, he moved to Albany, where he spent the next six decades in the hairdressing field, working until the last days of his life. He attributed his strong work ethic to his Italian heritage, of which he was very proud. But also, anyone who knew him would say that he loved being around people, and enjoyed his customers as much as they enjoyed him. Extended family was very important to Pat. Despite living several hours away, he would always make time to visit his parents and siblings several times a year. At weddings he was the star of the show. "I always make an entrance!" was a favorite expression of his. Pat's mother was very influential in his life. Her loss was a particular sorrow for him, yet her influence remained with him even in his old age. He often would praise her and quote her advice. "As my mother used to say…" he would say, and pass her wisdom on to another generation. Another sorrow was the loss of his long term companion Bill, who died of a long illness. During this illness, Pat was instrumental in caring for Bill's every need, in order to keep him home out of the hospital. Despite any hardship, Pat always found a reason to laugh and to make others laugh. His good humor and gregarious personality brought joy to the many nieces and nephews who will miss him. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral mass on Friday, November 14th at 9:30 am at the Parish of Mater Christi, 40 Hopewell St., Albany. Memorial contributions may be made to the Capital City Rescue Mission, 259 So. Pearl St., Albany, NY 12202-1805.