Salvatore "Sal" Peter Gatto

Salvatore Peter Gatto, fondly known as Sal, Dad, or PaPaw, passed away on November 12, 2023, in Spring, TX, surrounded by his loving wife and two children after a life well lived. Born on October 25, 1930, in Belleville, NJ, to Nicholas and Rosa (nee Duca) Gatto. He was the youngest of eight children born to Sicilian immigrants. Sal's journey through life was marked by a vibrant spirit, a love for family, and a passion for various pursuits. He attended Caldwell Schools and excelled in football, eventually transitioning into a semi-professional football career. A dedicated member of the Caldwell Fire Department, he later owned the successful Caldwell Pizzeria, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. In the 1960s, Sal relocated to Sea Bright, NJ, embracing the small-town shore life. Actively involved in the local fire department and town council, he spent his free time enjoying his fishing boat at Bill’s Landing. The mid-seventies brought an opportunity to move to Houston, TX, where he met and married the love of his life, Tennie Gatto. Together, they shared 47 years of marriage. Sal's professional journey led him to MJ Sheridan and Son, where he contributed to laying pipelines along major highways in NJ and Houston, TX. Later, he worked with North Houston Pole Line until his retirement at the age 79. A devoted family man, Sal's greatest joy was his family. He was known for his "bad dad jokes," playful teasing, and the proud passing on of his cherished meatball recipe. His impact extended to his community involvement, evidenced by his active roles in fire departments and town councils. Sal is preceded in death by his parents Nichola and Rosa (Duca) Gatto, and siblings Harriett, Carmen, Anna, Rose, Nicholas, Peter, and Josephine. He is survived by his loving wife Tennie Gatto, daughter Margaret Gatto Senn, son Nicholas Gatto and his wife Lindsay, stepdaughter Tammie Renee Reece, Stepson Tommy Ray Reece and wife Sherry, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A celebration of Sal's life will take place on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at Addison Funeral Home, 18630 Kuykendahl Rd, Spring, TX, 77379. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Service will commence at 11:00 AM. Sal will be laid to rest at Tranquility Oaks Cemetery, 22302 Hildebrandt Rd, Spring, TX, 77389. The family requests honoring Sal's memory by sharing a bad joke with loved ones, savoring a cannoli or meatball, or listening to a 1950s radio show, preferably one about the headless horseman. Salvatore Peter Gatto will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality and the love he shared generously with those fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace.

Salvatore "Sal" Peter Gatto

October 25, 1930 - November 12, 2023