Ford Hughes Dato

2002 - 2017

Ford Hughes Dato obituary, 2002-2017, Tampa, FL

BORN

2002

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Blount & Curry Funeral Home - Macdill Chapel

605 S MACDILL AVE

Tampa, Florida

Ford Dato Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 17, 2017.

Ford Hughes Dato, 14, passed away May 15, 2017. Our little boy is an angel in heaven now. Ford was born September 19, 2002 and was a happy, loving and caring boy with a big heart and was a friend to all. He loved spending time with his family and many friends; including his beagle Shiloh, his loving animals including rabbits and chickens. He enjoyed gardening and spending time with his Boy Scout Troop 53. He rowed on the crew team for The Plant High Middle School team. He loved listening to classic rock and studying genealogy and history. He attended Coleman Middle School and was looking forward to attending Plant High in the fall where he was going to be playing the trumpet in the marching band.



He is survived by his best friend and brother, J.D.; mom and dad, Pam and Joe; grandparents, “Mimi” (Louise Burnett) and “Papa” (Joe Dato) and “JuJu” (Judy Dato); many wonderful aunts, uncles, cousins and best buds, Kryder and Marshall. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 11 am at Palma Ceia United Methodist Church 3723 W Bay to Bay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629.



In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boy Scouts of America 1275 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309-3506 or Palma Ceia United Methodist Church 3723 W Bay to Bay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629 or Plant High School Rowing Association, P.O. Box 10576 Tampa FL 33679.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Ford Dato

Sponsored by a friend.

What is your first memory of Ford?

Share a favorite memory you have of Ford.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Ford.

Describe a time when Ford made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Ford?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Ford.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Ford.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Ford.

What is something you learned from Ford?

Not sure what to say?

July 24, 2017

Sydney Vernon

i know it is far to late to be sending this now, but ford was a dear friend of mine. when i was new to south tampa/coleman middle school ford was the first person i met. he showed me around the school and to all of my classes. we bonded on our music choice, he had a very good one! i am truly so sorry for your loss as a family and for the worlds loss on such an amazing person. may he rest in peace and always be remembered.

with love, sydney vernon
friend, fellow student.

May 30, 2017

Julie Wodka

Pam, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

May 29, 2017

MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES AND MY LOVE AND PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY SINCERLY PHYLLIS GAIDE

May 24, 2017

Helen Emery

Pam,

I am so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers for you and your family. May he rest in peace.

May 24, 2017

Mary & Steven Perry

Dearest Pam, Joe and our precious Aunt Louise...
There are no words to express our deep sadness in the passing of Ford. We will continue to lift prayers that Our Lord, Jesus will wrap His Strong & Comforting Arms around each & every member of your families, for Strength. We pray you will feel HIS presence as close as your hands & feet. As close as your next breath.

May 23, 2017

Francine Watts

My heart weeps alongside yours. I am deeply sorry for your loss, our loss. Prayers for your peace and comfort will continue.

May 23, 2017

Nancy Simms

Joe and Judy, I am truly so sorry for your loss.

May he rest in peace.

Nancy Simms

May 23, 2017

Farrell Family

Pam, Joe and JD, please know that you are not alone in your grief. Surely everyone who knows you is heartbroken by this loss. It may bring little comfort now, but we believe Ford is in a better place and you will be reunited one day. JD, your friendship is important to Connor. Likely nothing we can say can bring much comfort, but please just know that we are praying for your family.
With love, the Farrell family (Connor, Leslie, Joe, Meaghan and Tristan)

May 22, 2017

Such a wonderful young man

May 22, 2017

Lisa Badstein Gwinn

Pam, I am so very sorry and am praying for you and your family.

May 22, 2017

Joe Judy and family

Our deepest condolences in these difficult times.Rest in Peace Luisa and Frank Cisneros

May 22, 2017

Kurt Richter

The Richter family grieves with you. Our world is a little darker without Ford, and heaven is a little brighter with him.

May 22, 2017

Shannon Ellison

JD, Pam, and Joe,
We are praying so hard for your family during this most difficult time. We love all of you dearly.

May 21, 2017

Joe and Pam, Joe Sr. and Judy Dato, many prayers at this very difficult time. So sorry to hear of this tragedy. Words cannot descibe how saddened I am for your loss. You all are like family. God Bless you all. Ashley C. Burpee

May 21, 2017

Pam, Joe, JD, and family. Our deepest condolences to you. You are and will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Laura and Steven Capriati.

May 21, 2017

Classmate

Kiera Barrett

My heart is broken for your family and the loss of your son...love and prayers to you.

May 21, 2017

Gabriela Munoz

Dear Pam, Joe, J.D., and family,
My deepest condolences for your unimaginable loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers daily.

May 21, 2017

Fran Kelly

Joe, Pam, JD, Big Joe and Judy,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss of Ford. I know so well there are no words that can offer any easing of your pain. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

May God bless all of you and give you comfort.

Fran Kelly & the Kelly Family; Mary Ann Sr., Mark, Peach

May 21, 2017

Friend

Danielle Hernandez

Words cannot express the hole in our hearts from the loss of Ford. His smile and goofy sense of humor was infectious to everyone. He was one of the first friends my daughter Sara made when she started going to Coleman. There was never a day that she did not share a story, a joke, and a laugh about Ford. We will continue to carry the greatest memories of Ford and also Saras friendship with JD. We pray for you Pam, Joe, JD, and Ford. May God walk with you and lead you towards peace and healing. The world lost a beautiful soul that will never be forgotten.

- Danielle, Sara, and Daniel Hernandez

May 20, 2017

Angela Maskin

Our thoughts and prayers are with you now during this most difficult time. May God bless your family.

May 20, 2017

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

May 20, 2017

Robin Thompson

Pam,Joe and J.D
I'm truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine your pain. My prayers are with you and your family. I hope you find peace and comfort knowing that Ford is with the Lord. God in control and he will see you through this difficult time. I'm always here if you need me.
I love you.

Robin Thompson

May 20, 2017

Stan Andrew

There are no words. I can't imagine the heartbreak you feel right now Joe. My sincerest condolences to you and your family. Hope all the the love and prayers I see from yours and Ford's many friends and colleagues bring you and your family some small measure of solace. If there is anything I can do....please don't hesitate to ask.

May 20, 2017

Abby and Susan Crane

I used to be friends with Ford and JD and we used to hang out at Coleman Middle School a lot. When I heard that Ford passed away recently, I was very shocked and saddened. Ford was a great kid, a great friend, and a great brother to JD. May Ford rest in peace, and My mother and I give our best wishes and condolences to JD and his family.

May 20, 2017

Camille Sperduto

I did not know young Ford, but I do know and love the Burnetts. They are a model of friendship, faith and perseverance. It is hard to understand this tragedy, but God is still on His throne and I pray He will see them through this hardest of times. Dear friends, I hope you will find peace in Him and comfort in your friends and family who love you. God bless.

May 20, 2017

Judy & Flake Chambliss

Pam, Joe, J.D.,Louise, Judy and Joe, I cannot imagine what you are going through right now. Ford made 14 years of memories to last us for a lifetime. We just wanted you to know our hearts are with you.

May 20, 2017

We are so truly sorry for your loss. We are praying for your family to get through this tough time. God bless you all.

May 20, 2017

Jane Toombs

There are no words to express the depth of sympathy we extend to the Dato family. On behalf of the Ferlita family, our hearts go out to you Joe, Pam, J.D., Joe (Sr.) and Judy.

May 20, 2017

Our sincere sympathy to the Dato family. Caroline and Will remember happy times they shared with Ford. He will be missed.
The Clark Family

May 20, 2017

Kristen & Steve Mon Goy

There are no words that can express how very sorry our family is for your loss. I did not know Ford but my daughter Hannah has attended CMS and played in the band with Ford for the past couple years. Our thoughts go out to you during this very dark time. We hope the memories of happier times will eventually help heal your pain.

May 20, 2017

Mark Caraher

Joe I am So Very Sorry for your loss my Brother.

May 20, 2017

The Hensgens

J.D., Pam & Joe, Ford was a great kid and always a great addition to any adventure. He was over our house many times this past year, and we always enjoyed his visits and fun loving ways. We are so sorry for your loss and ours.

May 20, 2017

Jennifer Sparks

We are so sorry for your loss. My daughter Samantha Sparks (Coleman Middle) was in the same class with Ford in PreK & Kindergarten at Mabry. Our memories of Ford in those early years are so sweet. You are in our thoughts & prayers.

May 19, 2017

Lynn Mitchell

My heart goes out to you, Pam & Joe. May God bless you in this time of sorrow.

May 19, 2017

Lucas Oneil

There is no words to express the sorrow that I have for the family Rest In Peace ford Coleman middle school will truly miss you.

May 19, 2017

Nick Nazaretian

Pam and Joe, So Sorry.
Nick

May 19, 2017

The Perno Family

Our deepest sympathy for your loss. We will keep you and Ford in our thoughts and hope the wonderful memories that you made with Ford will help you through this tough time.

Jenine, Joe, Alexis & Chris

May 19, 2017

Phyllis and Bill Driggers

I cannot even begin to imagine the pain your family is feeling right now. Ford was a light in this world. I knew Ford when he was in preschool and he was funny and mischievous and kind. He loved his big brother and his family. Please know that I have thought of Ford and JD often over the years and it was always with a smile. Even though his time on this Earth was brief he left his mark and will not be forgotten. Our prayers are with you in this time of sorrow.

May 19, 2017

Tammy Barnes-Rodriguez

Pam and family,
My heart is broken for you. Please know that you are all are in my prayers. Wishing you strength during this painful time. We all love and miss you at work.

May 19, 2017

Tina and Jim Cloonan

Pam, Joe and JD,
We are so very very sorry for your loss. I have wonderful memories of Ford, and the many sweet conversations that we had. I'm keeping you all close in my prayers and asking God to comfort you in this time of great sorrow. May God bless you and give you strength and courage. Sending much love. Tina and Jim Cloonan

May 19, 2017

Sam and Linda Rodriguez

With deepest sympathy. We send our loving thoughts to all of you and share in your sorrow.

May 19, 2017

Betty and George Gessler

Sending our sincere deepest condolences to the entire Dato family.

May 19, 2017

Charlie Miranda

My deepest sympathy to you and the family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sincerely, Charlie Miranda

May 19, 2017

Elise and Gar Lippincott

We send our warmest condolences and deepest sympathy to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Much Love XO

May 19, 2017

Dear Pam,Joe and J.D., Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Hoping that your many wonderful memories will bring you some comfort in the days to come. With our deepest sympathy, Ed and Suzanne McFadden

May 19, 2017

The Galewski Family

Our deepest sympathy to the family. Words cannot express our sadness. May the comfort of God help you through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

May 19, 2017

Erin Cullaro

May the wonderful memories of Ford carry you forward and be with you Always.

May 19, 2017

Wanda Lane

My Prayers and Thoughts are with you all
in this time of sorry. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path.

May 19, 2017

To the Dato Family my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your precious and loving son.
Carolyn SAO Family.

May 19, 2017

Jacettia Montoute

Words cannot even express our deepest sorrow and sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, May the Lord and the peace of all understanding be with your family.
We care: Jacettia and the Receptionist

May 19, 2017

I am very sorry you all have lost your beloved Ford. In time, I hope that you all will find peace. (Jeremiah 29:11)

May 19, 2017

Kirsten, Paul, and Justin Carlisle

Words cannot even express our deepest sorrow and sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

May 19, 2017

Aleks Jagiella-Litts

I am sending you and your family love and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Aleks Jagiella-Litts

May 19, 2017

Jeff and Kathy Paskert

Joe, we are so saddened for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God provide each of you strength, hope, and perspective.

May 19, 2017

Monica Melendez

Though our words will do very little. May our prayers and support help you all in this difficult time. May your happy memories with Ford live on forever. May the love of your family surround you and give you strength in the days ahead. We will be praying for all of you. Our deepest condolences.

May 19, 2017

Patty McCourt Duckworth

Joe,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Praying for strength and peace for you all during this sad time.

May 19, 2017

We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. St. Mary's Episcopal Day School student (7th Grade)(anonymous) Tampa, Florida

May 19, 2017

We are very, very sorry for your loss. This is such a sad occurrence.
Bruce & Shirley Sitki

May 18, 2017

Dale & Alina Gabbard

Dear Joe, Pam and family. Words cannot express the loss of your beautiful son, but please accept our sincere condolences. We will keep Ford and your entire family in our prayers.

May 18, 2017

Diana Winoker

I am so sorry for your loss. May peace come to your lives in the near future.

May 18, 2017

Ford made me smile and laugh everyday in second grade. He was so bright, a gentleman, and an entertainer. I just loved his humor. I'm so sorry for your loss Pam, Joe and JD.

Emily (Meyer) Morris
Mabry

May 18, 2017

Deb Hinners

There are no words to ease your pain. May God's love surround you, and bring you peace.

May 18, 2017

Yolanda Kelsey-Long

Pam, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

May 18, 2017

Michelle Hamlyn

The world lost a wonderfully goofy, gentle soul. Ford was one of a kind, and I will always remember his smiling face. The hole in Coleman's heart is huge right now. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

May 18, 2017

Joan Anderson

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May memories bring you comfort. I am so sorry for your loss. In deepest sympathy, Joan Anderson (Coleman Middle School)

May 18, 2017

Ray Lopez

Joe and Pam, my heart is heavy and I would like to express my deepest sorrow and sympathy for you and your family. Nothing can compensate you for your loss but the people we love will always be a part of us and will live on with us. I hope you carry his memory wherever you go. Ray C. Lopez

May 18, 2017

Greta Brooks

Our family is so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you.

Greta and Steve Brooks
Gene Heinz
Heidi and Chris Wilson

May 18, 2017

Jennifer (Camerota) Grayson

Joe, Pam and JD, my deepest and heartfelt prayers for you and all your family for serenity and strength during this unbelievably painful time. While I know words can't do much to relieve your grief, I hope that the love that comes with knowing that you have support all around you to share that burden will give you some relief. We will also miss your angel, thank you for sharing him with us.

May 18, 2017

Pam and family, My thoughts and prayers for you and your family at this most diffilcult time. I will be praying for healing and comfort for you all.
Kay Campbell Hoppes

May 18, 2017

Our prayers are with your families at this sad time in your lives. May God give you the peace you need now.
Sally and Lewis Hill,111

May 18, 2017

Kenneth Green

My family is praying for all of you. I also hope you can concentrate on the positive things Ford has done to impact your lives.

May 18, 2017

Jennifer Parker

Words cannot express the profound sadness that we feel for your unimaginable loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

With Deepest Sympathy,
The Parker Family

May 18, 2017

Carla Day

I am so sorry for your loss. Ford was such a kind, sensitive young man. He will be missed by many but no one more than his family. I can't even begin to imagine your grief. You have all been in my thoughts and prayers and will continue. The Lord is close to the broken hearted. Let Him hold you through this difficult time.

May 18, 2017

Words could never express this sadness from the loss of your son. My thoughts are with you and all your of the family.
With love,
Joan Burpee

May 18, 2017

Deni Renninger

Joe, Pam and JD,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are heartbroken for you.
The Renninger's

May 18, 2017

Pam, Joe and family - so sorry for your loss, you are all in our prayers. The Lopez Family

May 18, 2017

Karen Harden

I cannot think of words to say except I am so sorry for your loss. Karen Harden

May 18, 2017

Claudia George

Dear Joe , Pam and family,
Our prayers and hearts are with you. There are no words to express the deep sadness that we feel. Our most profound condolences. Asking God for guidance and peace during this time. May He lift you up and cover you.
The George Family,
Claudia, Randy, Nicholas and Christopher

May 18, 2017

Rocky Pham

Ford shall find peace in the garden of Eden and God will protect and love him. On this earth, we will be always here for you.

May 18, 2017

Dear Pam,Joe,Jr, J.D., Judy, Joe and Louise and all of Ford's family, my heart is breaking for all of you. Only time and prayers can help make your pain seem softer. I love you and will keep praying for all of you.
He will be so missed. Patti Italiano

May 18, 2017

Please know that our prayers have ask God to give you all strength with the passing of your son and grandson. Bonnie and Andrew Scaglione

May 18, 2017

Mariana Ramirez

Dear JD, You and me have known each other since kindergarten and I consider you to be one of my close friends, I know you were really close with your brother and I know that you love him more than anything and I can't imagine how devastating this must be for you and your family I'm so sorry for your loss, we'll all miss Ford. God Bless you and your family and help you through this difficult time.

May 18, 2017

Matt Warhola

Pam, we just can't imagine the pain and grief you all are feeling right now. It is just unbelievable. I hope you and your family may soon find my some sort of peace and understanding with this tragedy. Kelly and I are thinking of and praying for you and your loved ones.
Matt

May 18, 2017

I cannot think of words for your loss, except my prayers are with you and your family.

May 18, 2017

Kendra Davis

Joe and Pam - My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you peace.

May 18, 2017

Steve Carter

Pam, Joe & JD...There are no words that can convey our feelings for your loss. We know that Ford is in heaven Steve & Mac

May 18, 2017

Ruth Cate

Pam, My deepest sympathies, my heart breaks for you because the sadness you and your family feel has no end. Keeping you, Joe and JD in prayer.

May 18, 2017

Ron Cacciatore

My deepest sympathies are extended to you for the great loss you have suffered. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

May 18, 2017

Gene Sainz

Our sincere and heart felt condolences on the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gene & Grace Maseda-Sainz

May 18, 2017

Joseph Fritz

May God help you and protect you at this time in your life.

May 18, 2017

Our sincerest sympathies go out to the Dato Family. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. The Davis Family (Laura, Kurt, Tyler & Amber)

May 18, 2017

Billie Davis

Joe, Pam & Family - I'm so sorry to hear of your sons passing. Praying for you all.

May 18, 2017

Pam, Joe and JD - We are thinking of you and praying for you at this sad time. May the peace that passes all understanding find a home and rest in your hearts. Love, Kelly Hendry and Sammi & Tony Puglisi

May 18, 2017

Gigi and Sonny LaBarbera

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
Love,
Gigi and Sonny

May 18, 2017

Brian Dolan

Our deepest condolences to the Dato Family on the loss of your dear and wonderful son and grandson, Ford. You are all in our thoughts and prayers, love, Brian and Martha Dolan

May 18, 2017

Sonja Bonanno

Pam and Joe, we will pray that God helps you through this time of sorrow and that he will help you make sense of your loss. Bob and Sonja Bonanno

May 18, 2017

Amy Neely

Pam, Joe & JD - We are heartsick over hearing of Ford's passing. We are praying for you and your entire families.

May 18, 2017

I am deeply saddened for your loss. please know that Ford and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers.
~ Lesley Morter

May 18, 2017

Michael OBrien

Joe,
Our prayers are with you and your family.

May 18, 2017

Robin, Will and Nicho Menendez

Pam, Joe, JD and Family, Our sincere condolences to you and your family in this most difficult time.

Showing 1 - 100 of 161 results

Make a Donation
in Ford Dato's name

Memorial Events
for Ford Dato

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Blount & Curry Funeral Home - Macdill Chapel

605 S MACDILL AVE, Tampa, FL 33609

How to support Ford's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Ford Dato's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more