OBITUARY: Feb. 18, 1931 - Jan. 16, 2017 - Esther L. Gatto, age 85 of Sarasota, passed away January 16, 2017 at home. She was born February 18, 1931 in Monesson, PA to Cecil and Thelma Johnson. Esther graduated in 1968 from St. Francis General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA as an RN. Her proudest moments of her career were spent working for Hospice of Venice. She volunteered for the Children and Family Services and the Manasota Lighthouse. Esther enjoyed crafting and reading, and most of all, spending time with her family. - Esther was preceded in death by her loving husband of 36 years, Fred Gatto. She is survived by her children; Darrell Gatto, Geri-Lynn Neuwar, and Shirley Bentz; grandchildren; Rachel (Tim) Foushee, Missy Oberg, David Perhats, Heather Poploski, and Bob, Tom and Susie Bentz; 9 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; brothers, Nick Mallen, Ray Dirjin, and Dennis Garcia; and sister, Millie McCombs. - Visitation will be Monday, January 23, 2017 from 9am – 1pm at Palms Robarts Funeral Home; 170 Honore Ave in Sarasota, FL. A graveside service will take place immediately following the visitation at Palms Robarts Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to St. Francis Nursing Alumni Association; PO Box 40182, Pittsburgh, PA 15201; and/or the Manasota Lighthouse; 7318 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243. -- Published in Herald Tribune from Jan. 18 to Jan. 20, 2017