Emil J. Catalano

Emil was the second son born to Rose (nee Purino) & Alfred Catalano on August 28, 1933 in (Flatbush), Brooklyn, NY. He was a big baby, weighing over 10 Ibs., but he had weak lungs, causing severe asthma which lasted until he was around 30 yrs. old. His condition was so severe that strenuous play or activities caused him to expire on two occasions as a child and was resuscitated each time. It was clear that Emil was a fighter!

His academic studies included attending P.S. 89 Elementary School, graduating in 1948 and then attending Alexander Hamilton H.S. where he enjoyed studying mechanical drawing, pattern making, sheet metal, electrical and carpentry. He graduated in 1952. His first job was with a cabinet maker in Brooklyn while he also held a part-time job at A&S Department Store in downtown Brooklyn. As he advanced, Emil wanted a better paying job with a good future.

Since he was thin and had a respiratory ailment he wasn’t able to serve his country. Emil wanted to be in the military and this distressed him. But, persevering, he found joy in woodworking, mechanics and such, always helping family and friends with odd jobs however he could. Once Emil was told that he had a rare blood type, so he became a regular NY Blood Center donor for many years.

He was hired by Addressograph-Multigraph Corp. (New York City) and worked in their embossing department. He later advanced to a machinist, who repaired office machines throughout Manhattan, carrying a 40 lb. bag of tools with him. He was commended with an award for his true professionalism and for making positive contributions to the firm. Emil worked for A-M for 38 years through its change to Varityper. Due to its restructuring, he retired in 1991.

As Emil never married, the children of his five siblings became “his kids” too! He lovingly referred to them as his “skutches” (an Italian-American slang word which refers to those who are annoying/pestering) and he took every opportunity to do just that! He was the “fun” uncle, until HE got tired!!.

His passion as a sportsman was to “bag a buck” which he did on one of his many trips to Wurtsboro, Sullivan County, NY. He and his best friend, George Reice, along with our youngest brother, John, enjoyed the thrill of hunting, fishing and archery as well as bowling and playing cards. Emil was a proud “Lifetime Member” of the National Rifle Association. His dream was realized in 1969 and all the “skutches” loved to pet the trophy hanging on his bedroom wall!

The Catholic Churches of St. Therese of Lisieux (Little Flower) and St. Jude in Brooklyn benefited from Emil’s volunteerism. He and Pop were longtime members of the Holy Name Society and the Nocturnal Adoration Society among other fundraising organizations.

A devoted son, Emil cared for our parents, taking them to bingo, on vacations and on trips to visit family in the many states where we all settled. Pop passed away in 1982 and Mom passed in 1990, but Emil stayed in Canarsie until his chronic health didn’t allow him to live alone. He moved to Leisure Glen in Ridge, NY.

As his health issues mounted he took residence in Sunrise Assisted Living in Holbrook. His older brother, Vincent (Janet) passed away in 2006 and his youngest brother, John (Patricia) passed in 2009. Currently, Emil’s living siblings are Alfred (Barbara), Dolores (Joe Curreri) and Marie (Bob Bilbao). His “skutches” include Patty (Mike), DeeDee (Greg), Butch (ChunOk), Vinnie (Patty), Joseph (Mary), Steven (Michelle), Michael (Tricia), Theresa (Terry), Annmarie, (Paul), Christine (Rob), Kim (Shane), Roseann (Jeff), Chase (Stephanie), Anthony (Jackie) and Jennifer (John).

Emil lived a long, full life up until he succumbed to chronic poor health. At 91 years old he still wanted a cold beer! We look forward to that great family reunion in Heaven when we can all be together again.

In lieu of flowers or material gifts, please donate to your favorite charity, church, temple, organization, or towards feeding the poor. Thank you. The family of Emil Catalano http://comemphis.churchcenter.com The mission of Campus Outreach is to walk alongside college students in mentoring relationships, to help them understand their purpose, and to train them to make a real difference in the world as spiritual leaders. In many cases college is the first time students are away from home exploring the world, establishing lifelong values and making significant decisions that will affect the rest  of their lives and the people around them. We believe shaping college students in this window will have a ripple effect impacting future families, organizations and communities around the world.