Aurelio “Rill” Donato, 85, of Woodstock, GA, passed away December 3, 2023, at home surrounded by his children and memories of his late wife, Joanne.

Aurelio was the youngest of eight brothers. Born on August 20, 1938 in Steelton, PA, the son of the late Joseph Donato, Sr. and Anna Tucci Donato. He is preceded in death by all his brothers: Anthony, Frank, Eugene, Samuel, Joseph Jr., Victor and Orlando Donato.

He is survived by his son, Aurelio J. Donato and his wife, Cynthia; his daughter, Dina Donato; two sister-in-laws, Caroline B. Donato and Helen A. Donato of Harrisburg, PA along with many nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Harrisburg Catholic High School in 1956 (later renamed Bishop McDevitt). Aurelio enjoyed playing several sports while in high school. His true passion and dream was to become a pilot. After high school, he joined the Pennsylvania National Guard to pursue a career in aviation.

During this time, he met the love of his life, Joanne K. Donato. They were blessed with 59 years of marriage. Aurelio would often say, “Joanne was everything to me.”

They family relocated to Atlanta, Georgia in 1966 to begin a 30 year career with Delta Air Lines. He stated he had a wonderful wife, a blessed career and a loving family and friends. He will be missed and loved forever.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 11:00 am in Wiedeman Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 357 South Harrisburg Street, Oberlin, with Rev. Jonathan P. Sawicki, Officiating. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery at the conclusion of services. A viewing will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 10:00 am - 11:00 am in the funeral home.