Jul 8, 2026

formerly of Perryopolis

David William Pato, 76, of Irwin, formerly, of Perryopolis, passed away peacefully Saturday, July 4, 2026. He was born August 10, 1949, a son of William Joseph and Anne Moskal Pato.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Kathleen Ann Briggs.

He was a 1967 graduate of Frazier High School, and he also completed the Penn Tech Trade School Electrical Program.

David was employed by Mathies Mine and various other mines for many years, where he was a 50-ton motor operator, various machine operator, and ultimately a river boat captain.

He was a member of Olive Branch Baptist Church, Belle Vernon. He played for many years in the praise and worship band at Journey by Grace Church in Rostraver. In addition to his music ministry, Dave made many philanthropic contributions.

David is survived by his wife, Nancy Smodic Pato; daughter, Elizabeth Rae Braithwaite; granddaughter, Emma Rae; siblings, Joseph Emory Pato, Paul Eugene Pato (Denise), John Daniel Pato (Yolanda), William Richard Pato (Tammy), Jennifer Lynn Musiak (Mark); brother-in-law, Hugh Briggs; special caregiver, Jason Koterba; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

David’s family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, in the BLAIR-LOWTHER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 305 Rear Independence Street, Perryopolis, where his funeral service will be held at 8 p.m., with Pastor Ken Sommerfeldt officiating. Interment will be private.

Contributions can be made, in David’s memory, to New Life Options, 308 Chess Street, Monongahela, PA 15063.

Condolences for the family are welcome at blair-lowther.com