Anthony J. Amato MILTON - Anthony J. Amato, age 73, of Milton, passed away peacefully at his residence, on Saturday, May 15, 2010, surrounded by his family. He was born to the late Angela and Joseph Amato, in Philadelphia, Pa., on January 18, 1937. Shortly after, the family moved to Chelsea, Mass., and he attended school there until he enlisted in the USAF in 1954. His career took him to many parts of the world prior to his retirement in 1978. Following his retirement he worked on Government projects for many years and later became State Aviation Director under Governor Carper's administration until 2000. He had a strong passion for flying and held many ratings including instrument, single, multi-engine and in 1990 obtained his airline transport rating. He enjoyed teaching and helped many local pilots obtain their licenses. He was a member of the Lewes Presbyterian Church, Lewes, Del., a 33rd degree mason and member of the Jefferson Lodge, Lewes, Del, a member of the Nur Temple, New Castle, Del., the Lewes Lions Club, and the Quiet Birdmen Association of Wilmington , Del. In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by a sister, Paula Boschetti in 2009. He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Nina A. Amato; four sons, Anthony Amato, Jr. of Las Vegas, Nev., Keith Amato of Dallas, Texas, Joseph Amato and wife Florence of of Camden, Del, Stephen Amato of Woodbridge, Va.; two stepsons, John W. Stewart of St. Augustine, Fla., and Jeffrey Stewart and wife Sherry of Lewes, Del.; a sister, Anna Venuti and husband Charles; and brother-in-law, Carlo Boschetti, all of Reading, Mass.; seven grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; one niece; and three nephews. Memorial services with military honors will be held on Thursday May 20, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE., where friends may call one hour prior to services. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to the Lewes Presbyterian Church, 133 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958 or to the Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Please sign the online guestbook at www.paresellfuneralhomes.com