Victor V. Amato

Victor V. Amato, 80 years old, passed away peacefully at Christiana Hospital on November 8th, surrounded by his loving family.

A native Delawarean, Victor was born to immigrant Italian parents from Naples, Joseph and Carmela Amato. He was the youngest and last surviving of eight children and was predeceased by his parents and siblings Ralph, John, Helen Donofrio, Mary Bennet, Jonathan, Esther Donofrio, and Joseph.

Growing up in Wilmington’s Little Italy, Victor lost his father at the age of eight, and his older brothers left school to help support the family. A graduate of H. Fletcher Brown High School, Victor served an apprenticeship with Bricklayers Local #1 of Delaware & Pennsylvania and worked as a bricklayer until retiring at age 60. Christiana Hospital, Brandywine Building, and Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia were among the sites he worked on, and he proudly pointed out which parts featured his brickwork.

Victor loved all sports, especially watching his grandchildren play, and became an “expert” in soccer, softball, and lacrosse. As a proud Pop Pop who adored all of his grandchildren, he tried never to miss a game, church event, or school activity. He also enjoyed horse racing, playing the slots, and cheering for the Phillies and Eagles.

Victor is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley Laws Amato, and two children, Dr. David Amato and wife Marie, and daughter Amy Amato. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Andrew, Payton, Haley, Hannah, Anthony, Alex, and Haven, as well as extended family including many nieces and nephews. Victor had a wide circle of close friends, including travel partners from around the world, long-time companions from Delaware Park and many dear friends with whom he and Shirley shared countless memories.

Services will be held on Friday, November 14th, 2025 at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, with visitation from 9:00 to 10:30 AM and the service at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow at St. Georges Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 131 Continental Drive, Suite 407, Newark, DE 19713 or Ebenezer United Methodist Church, 525 Polly Drummond Hill Road, Newark, DE 19711.

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