Obituary of Francis M. Amato

Frank M. Amato, a longtime Kenvil resident, died peacefully at his home after a long illness on Sunday, April 5, 2020, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 78.

Frank was born in Morristown on August 30, 1941 to the late Samuel and Louise Amato.  Frank’s parents instilled a strong sense of pride and appreciation of a good work ethic in their four children from a very young age.  After his schooling, Frank enlisted in the US Army reserves and was honorably discharged in 1968.

Frank settled in Kenvil over 30 years ago where he had his home and business. He earned his way through his love of woodwork, specializing in cabinetry using Formica, back at the height of its popularity. Even after retirement he continued to create for his church, family and friends.

Frank was a devout Christian and strove hard to be a good disciple of God. He did many good works for his church such as creating an inlaid communion table, props and toys for children's activities and beautiful crosses. He participated in at least one mission trip and, for many years, used his skills to maintain and beautify his church.

Frank was also a tremendous animal lover, especially of his cats, Shadow and Cashmere (and before that Fatty) whom he doted on.  His family has stories of how he adopted skunks, racoons, even a rat because he couldn't stand to see a creature in need.  In recent years he worked with the local animal control to capture and spay local strays whom he fed and housed during cold weather.

He was a very kind and generous man, regularly and generously donating to charities such as St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, St Huberts animal rescue, CNB, Doctors Without Borders, PETA, ASPCA, CARE, Disabled veterans, and CHILDFUND (through which he sponsored a child) and others.  Frank always put others first and his friends and  family will always remember his warm, loving spirit, impish sense of humor, and smile that could light up a room.

In addition to his parents, Frank was predeceased by his brother, Philip Amato; sisters, Eleanor Schenck & Joanne Beneduce and sister Marion, who died at age 7.  He is survived by his daughter, Sherry Amato Smith and her husband, Paul, many loving nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, and numerous loyal friends whom he loved as family.

A memorial service for Frank will be announced at a later date. For notes of condolence to the family, please visit www.madisonmemorialhome.com.

Charitable contributions in Frank’s memory may be made to St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center at 575 Woodland Avenue, Madison, NJ 07940