Katherine C. "Kathy" Fratto's Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Katherine C. Fratto. She was returned to the arms of our Heavenly Father Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at St. Camillus Nursing & Rehab Center, surrounded by her loving family.
She was predeceased by her wonderful husband of 42 years, Daniel Fratto; husband, Robert Casler; daughter, Nicolina Fratto; son, Thomas Griffiths, Jr. and brother, Clinton Curtis.
She is survived by her devoted companion of 18 years, Joseph Sardaneri; her 4 children, Lorna Beres (Ron), Diane Italiano (Ray), David Griffiths, and John Fratto (Katie); brothers, Steve Curtis (Linda), Mick Curtis (Colleen), and Lynn Curtis (Barbara); 12 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and 3 great-greatgrandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.
Katherine was born to Helen and Morris Curtis in Syracuse, NY on January 13, 1934. She was a life-long resident of this area and held many jobs over the years including running a farm, owning a bar and a diner, selling insurance and even as a dance instructor. However, the deep concern she had for the welfare of our community’s children compelled her to dedicate herself to working for Onondaga County Social Services as a foster parent. She was very proud of her 30 years of service, during which time she accepted over 500 children into her care. She believed that every child has the right to be safe, warm, well-nourished, educated and most importantly, loved. Her home was always open to everyone. No one in need was ever turned away.
Katherine was a very beautiful, active, and intelligent woman with many hobbies. She enjoyed past times like camping, mall-walking, spending time at the casino and lunches with her friends from the Red Hat Society. Katherine was a very accomplished seamstress, talented baker, and gifted vocalist. She loved music and was a beautiful dancer. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Katherine suffered with Rheumatoid Arthritis from a very young age and decided long ago to donate her body to science so that she might contribute to the study of this crippling disease.
Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 6:00 PM on Monday, June 26, 2023, at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) N. Syracuse, NY, immediately followed by a prayer service in celebration of Katherine’s life at 6:00 PM in the funeral home.
There will be a private burial, at a later date, at Assumption Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Arthritis Foundation or the National MS Society, in honor of her beloved daughter, Nicolina.
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