Mr. Donato (Danny) Antonio Battista Sr. 65 of Harding passed away Thursday, November 22, 2012.

Born in Calabritto in the providence of Avellino, Italy on December 14, 1946. He was the son of the late Rocco and Antonia Mattia Battista. He immigrated to Newark, New Jersey in 1956 and graduated from Central High School Newark, where he served as an ambassador for the National Honor Society. After high school, he went on to attend Farleigh Dickinson University and Rutgers University. He was a member of the Army National Reserves. He spent his career as manager and supervisor for very successful grocery store businesses, most notably his near twenty years of service with Insalaco's Supermarkets. 

 
Donato, or "Danny" as most referred to him, enjoyed his career but also enjoyed the little things in life and passed that mentality down to his children. A small basket of fresh figs, spending time tending to his garden, making homemade wine or a simple game of Scopa with his kids after dinner were just a few of the things that brought a smile to his face. He enjoyed conversations with old friends and spending time with relatives at their seasonal family gatherings.
He was a devote catholic and parishioner of Corpus Christi Parish, Harding. 

He was the beloved husband of the former Mary Ann DeAngelo and loving father to Annamaria Battista and her finance Ryan McGrady of Centermoreland, and Donato Battista Jr. and his girlfriend Cara Bell of Columbus, Georgia.
Also surviving are:
Sister: Marie Grieco of Bloomsfield, New Jersey
Sister: Regina Manley of Scranton
Brother in Law: Joseph DeAngelo and his wife Hermine of Avoca
Nieces and Nephews

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 12:30 P.M. at Corpus Christi Parish, Harding with Msgr. Sempa officiating. Interment will be in Mt. View Cemetery, Harding. Calling hours will be private. Arrangements are by the Bernard J. Piontek Funeral Home Inc. 204 Main Street Duryea. To send the family an online condolence or for further information, please visit www.piontekfuneralhome.com.

Guestbook Entries

Mary Ann, Anna Maria and Donato, I know nothing that I say or do can take away the pain. Someone so special can never be forgotten. Sharing in your sorrow, thinking of you and wishing I could be there to hold your hand.

Theresa and Primo (over 11 years ago)

Dear Battista Famiy, I am so very sorry for and saddened by your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. May you find comfort in the promise of our Heavenly Father that in the near future He will undo the pain and suffering caused by death, by reuniting us with our dead loved ones by means of a resurrection on a paradise earth that will be filled with peace, happiness, and perfect health for everyone. (John 5:28,29; Revelation 21:3,4) As you read these texts from your Bible, may they be of comfort to you now and always. My deepest sympathy to you.

Khrystalle Harris (over 11 years ago)

The world has lost a special person. Danny was our "boss" at Insalaco's but he was more of a good friend. We had some great times at work and after at the bar next door! Our thoughts are prayers are with you all. We will never forget him.

Maria Leandri Yonki & Joe Leandri (over 11 years ago)

My heartfelt sympathy to the Battista and DeAngelo families. May God bless you with strength during this most difficult time.

Peter Olsheski (over 11 years ago)

Maryann, AnnaMaria and Donato ... I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I have fond memories of our families getting together when I was younger.

Jacqulyn M Nicholson (over 11 years ago)

Anna-- So sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family through this time.

Kevin Pugliese (over 11 years ago)

Our sympathy to Donato's family. We were friends with his mother in law, Irene DeAngelo, and she spoke so highly of him. We felt as if we knew him and we are sorry for your loss.

Denise & Bill Decker (over 11 years ago)

Mary Ann, Donato & Anna Maria ... we are very sorry to hear of Danny's passing. It is never easy to lose someone you love. If there is anything you need or any way we can help...please let us know.

Tony & Mary Ann Ferlick (over 11 years ago)

Mary Ann- Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Our deepest sympathy.

Mr and Mrs Anthony Pliska and Family (over 11 years ago)

We were so sorry to hear the sad news that Dan had died. Our deepest sympathy and prayers are for you and your family at this diffficult time. He was a much valued employee and a very good friend. He will be missed!

Leonard and Lita Insalaco (over 11 years ago)

So sorry for your loss. I worked with Danny many years at Insalaco's. Our prayers and sympathy are with you.

Mary and Don Funk (Mary McCafferty) (over 11 years ago)

With deepest condolences, we are very sorry to hear of your loss.

Franquet Family (over 11 years ago)

Dan was one of the fairest men i have had the chance to work with and be around i know you will miss him for quite some time my thoughts and prayers are with you all

Gene Holcomb (over 11 years ago)

My thoughts are prayers are with the entire Battista family. Donato was a wonderful man. He will be missed by many.

Kendra (over 11 years ago)

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May he rest in peace with the other angels. God bless.

Joyce and Ed Masher (over 11 years ago)

Deepest condolences Danny was one of the kindest nicest people we ever worked with. He will be missed. May God give you strength throught your memories

Kenneth and kyle Shambe (over 11 years ago)

Our prayers and thoughts are with you all, as well as our heartfelt sympathy.

Elaine and Bill Bell (over 11 years ago)

For some reason i was thinking of Danny the other day.I used to work with him.He was a good man to have as a friend.I will miss him,but not forget him.

John and Debbie Jorda (over 11 years ago)

we are so very sorry to hear this sad news.. I enjoyed every time I would see Donato and talk about gardening and food, he was a wonderful person. If I can do anything please let me know. Love thoughts and prayers .... Lisa

Lisa John and Rita Fischer (over 11 years ago)

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