John A D'Amato

June 3, 1920 - July 10, 2021

John A D’Amato, 101, of Manchester, widower of Grace (Altiparmakis) D’Amato, passed away peacefully Friday (July 9, 2021) at his home with his family beside him. A native and longtime New Britain resident, John moved to Manchester in 2004. A graduate of New Britain High School, Class of 1938, John is a World War II US Army Veteran. He was the first inductee from New Britain in the July 1941 draft lottery. He served in the US Army as a First Sergeant for 4 years. He regarded his service as one the greatest experiences of his life. After his military service, John was employed at CT Theatre Associates. He managed the Palace theatre in New Britain and the Elm theatre in West Hartford. He advanced to General Manager of several theatres throughout the state and retired from the industry after 57 years. He is a member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in New Britain; was a former member and Past President of St. George Parish Council; was former Chairman of the Church Greek Festival; was also former President of the Golden Rascals Senior Group; and was a Life Member of Elks Lodge BPOE #975 in New Britain where he was past Chairman of Italian Night and was Elks Man of the Year in 1987. John was also a member of VFW Post 511 in New Britain. He is survived by his son, William J. D’Amato of Maricopa, AZ; his daughter, Kathryn D’Amato-Cortese and her husband John Cortese of Manchester; two brothers, Fiore and William D’Amato, both of Berlin; a grandson, JonCarlo Cortese of Enfield; a great granddaughter, Avyanna Rose Cortese; several nieces and nephews; and brother in-law Dr. Gregory Petrakis. Besides his wife Grace, he was predeceased by 8 brothers and 3 sisters. Calling hours will be held Friday (July 16, 2021) 9 AM at St George Greek Orthodox Church, 301 West Main Street, New Britain, CT 06052, followed by funeral services at 10 AM. Burial with military honors will be in Fairview Cemetery, New Britain. The Carlson Funeral Home, New Britain is assisting with arrangements. Donations may be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Please share a memory or note of sympathy at www.carlsonfuneralhome.com