86R21655 BPG-D
By: Bucy H.R. No. 998
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Family and friends are mourning the loss of Donald
Anthony Garritano of Cedar Park, who passed away on February 16,
2019, at the age of 67; and
WHEREAS, The son of Anthony and Ann Garritano, Don Garritano
was born in Philadelphia on January 26, 1952; he grew up in his
hometown and in Radnor, Pennsylvania, with the companionship of
three siblings, Michael, Marybeth, and Carolyn; while a student at
Villanova University, he met his future wife, Maria Talamo, and
they married at their alma mater on February 21, 1981; they were
blessed with a daughter, Gina, and two sons, Victor and Giancarlo;
and
WHEREAS, Mr. Garritano attended the Culinary Institute of
America and was employed in Philadelphia for many years as a chef
and kitchen manager; in 1994, his wife's nursing career took the
family to Palestine, Texas, and they later resided in Duncanville
and Victoria before settling in Cedar Park; Mr. Garritano then left
the culinary arts to work in building component sales, roofing,
construction, and solar sales and installation, and he provided
steadfast support and encouragement for his wife in her
professional advancement; and
WHEREAS, For two decades, Mr. Garritano was a very active
member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, and he participated in
Christ Renews His Parish and volunteered as kitchen manager for
Life Teen Retreats; when his youngest son was in Boy Scouts, he
became a member of the Troop Committee and served for 17 years as a
camping coordinator; he also volunteered for Habitat for Humanity
and Mobile Loaves and Fishes, and he donated five percent of his
business profits to local charities; a member of the Forest Oaks
Homeowners Association, he served as chair of the Pool Committee
and as a member of the Architectural Control Committee; in 2015, his
daughter gave him a rescue dog, and after learning pet therapy at
Austin Dog Alliance, he and his loyal German shepherd, Arty,
brought joy and solace to veterans, the elderly, and children
through the Leander ISD's Bow Wow Reading Dogs program; and
WHEREAS, Don Garritano lived a rich and purposeful life
centered on his family, his faith, and his community, and he will
forever hold a special place in the hearts of those he left behind;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Donald Anthony
Garritano and extend sincere sympathy to his loved ones; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Don
Garritano.