John Arato - Today, our family said goodbye to my father, John, who passed away at the age of 85. The last few years were shaped by his struggle with dementia, a long, difficult road that demanded a quiet strength from him every single day. Even as the illness changed so much, he held onto the small things that brought him comfort and familiarity.

He had a real love for sweet treats, and even on the hardest days, a cookie or a slice of cake could still bring out a spark in him. He also found peace in settling into his chair and watching TV, letting familiar shows fill the room when words and memories became harder to reach. Those simple routines became anchors for him, and for us.

Some of our favorite memories come from the years when he and my mother would take trips together, whether it was heading to the casino, sharing laughs, or spending time at Old Key West. Those moments were theirs, full of small joys and stories they carried with them. Remembering those times brings a kind of comfort now, knowing they can be together again.

As a family, we’ve decided not to hold a formal funeral. Instead, we ask that everyone celebrates his life in whatever way feels right — enjoying a favorite dessert, watching a show he might have liked, taking a quiet moment, or simply thinking of him in your own way.

He lived a long life, met challenges head-on, and found steadiness in the everyday things. We’re grateful for the time we had and for all who kept him in their thoughts during these last few years.

Rest in peace now, Dad.