Obituary of John S. Levato

Albany- John Sebastian Levato, 70, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2014 at his home. John was born on November 22, 1943 in Rochester, New York. He was a 1961 graduate of East Rochester High School, then followed with degrees from Monroe Community College, SUNY Cortland and a Masters Degree from the University at Albany, SUNY. John went on to work for the University at Albany, SUNY. His life long career in higher education spanned more than 40 years with his most recent position as the Assistant Dean of the School of Business. John was passionate about his work and took great pride in mentoring students to succeed both academically as well as in their life pursuits. His motto was always "students first". He took great pleasure in maintaining contact and ultimately creating life long friendships with countless students after their graduation. He received the University Excellence in Service Award in 1979 and 2004 and the University Excellence in Academic Advisement Award in 1982. John was predeceased by parents John and Sophia Levato, and brother Paul Cimicata. Survived by brother Raymond (Joanne) Levato of Rochester, sister-in-law Ellen Cimicata, nieces Cathleen Levato, Preston (Cimicata) Hall, Mary (Cimicata) Webb, Jill (Cimicata) Benoist, Godson Aaron Castellana and many grand nieces and nephews, and cousins in the Rochester area. John leaves friends in Rochester, the Capital Region and far beyond as he left a lasting impression to all he came into contact with. John simply made life more enjoyable for his extended families at Albany Country Club and the thousands of students, faculty and staff of the University at Albany. John was an avid golfer and member of Albany Country Club for over twenty years. He served on the Board of Governors, was a member of the ROB's, and a regular for morning coffee. He was a history buff who enjoyed reading and was often seen with a book from his large collection. Mostly he enjoyed playing golf with his friends on Saturday and Sunday mornings while espousing the world according to Johnny. He was never in need of a partner and all who played with him have a story to tell. John owned a hole in one at Albany, and those who knew him understood when he spoke to himself in the first person that his game was not going well. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2014 from 4 - 7 PM at St. Matthews Church, Mountainview St., Voohreesville with a Mass of Christian Burial also at St. Matthews on Friday February 21, 2014 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship has been set up in John's name at the University at Albany with contributions being accepted at any SEFCU location. You may give on-line at www.albany.edu/giving (please note "Levato Scholarship" in the comments section.) Or, checks may be sent to The University at Albany Foundation, UAB 226, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, New York 12222. Please note "Levato Scholarship" in the memo portion of the check.