Obituary of Paul Curato

Paul Curato, 103, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family after a long, full, and remarkable life. Born in Staten Island, NY to Lazzaro and Adelina Corato, Paul moved to Italy at just two years old, where he later met the love of his life, Vincenzina. They were married on July 20, 1953, before returning to the United States and settling in Brooklyn, NY—a place he proudly called home for the rest of his life.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Paul built his life around family, hard work, and simple joys. He fought bravely in World War II and carried that strength with him throughout his long life.

Paul was predeceased by his beloved wife, Vincenzina; his son, Lazzaro; his grandson, Daniel; and his siblings, Angelo, Antonietta, and Donato. He is survived by his son, Nicholas and daughter-in-law, Rosalie; his daughter-in-law, Donna (wife of his late son Lazzaro); and his sister, Maria Grazia, who still resides in Italy. He was cared for in his later years by his caretaker, Rosa, whose devotion brought comfort and support to him and his family.

Paul’s greatest pride was his family. He was the cherished grandfather of Ginamarie (Mike), Laura (James), Paul (Rosalyn), Diana (John), Nicholas, and the late Danny. He was blessed with great-grandchildren, Joseph, Juliana, Anthony, Lorenzo, Mikayla, Zachary, and Luca, who brought him joy in his later years. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

A talented shoemaker, Paul owned and operated his own shoe shop in Brooklyn for many years, earning the trust and admiration of countless customers who appreciated both his craftsmanship and his approachable, friendly manner. Outside of work, he enjoyed life’s simple comforts such as playing cards, walking the neighborhood while chatting in Italian with his neighbors, Sunday fishing on Shore Road with his sons, and a good home-cooked meal—especially pasta and escarole lovingly prepared by his wife. He also enjoyed watching the Yankees.

Paul had a collection of memorable expressions and gestures—like calling out “4, 5, 6!” when he was frustrated, or tapping his stomach when hungry—that will continue to bring smiles to those who knew and loved him.

He lived 103 extraordinary years filled with love, tradition, and family. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons passed down, and the generations who carry his love forward.

A visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 10:00 to 11:30 AM with his 12:00 PM Funeral Mass to follow at St. Gabriel’s Historic Church, 549 Route 520, Marlboro. Entombment will follow in St. Gabriel’s Cemetery & Chapel Mausoleum, Marlboro. For information, directions, or to leave condolence messages to the family, please visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com .