This page is a dedication to my treasured father Jimmy Allatto. His was a character unparalled. His heart more loving and magnanimous than any could hope to emulate.

Born Vincenzo Ramundo but known to those who loved him as J.A. There was never, nor will there ever be, another like him. He was truly a unique individual.

JA became my father when I was 19. He took me into his home and loved me like his own. In fact, I hesitate to even use the term step father but for the fact that my biological father is still around.

I was his daughter and no one could dispute that. He would get such a kick when someone would be introduced to me and say, "Oh yes, I can see that she's your daughter, the resemblance is remarkable." He would smile and say something like, "Yes, she looks just like me doesn't she?" While beaming proudly as any father would.

He was the father I always wished I had. He was proud of me, he loved me unconditionally, he spoiled me, he listened to me, he was always there for me. He said "I love you" all the time and filled my empty daughters heart with love.

When I got married he gave me a traditional Italian wedding with all the trimmings. Anything I wanted, everything I wanted. Nothing was too excessive for his daughter. He walked me down the aisle tall and proud, he gave me away to my husband with tears in his eyes. At the reception he danced with me to "I Wish You Love" by his absolute favorite singer Frank Sinatra. He passed out father of the bride business cards to all the guests.

When I had my children, he was their Poppi. He held them, loved them, nurtured them. I could bring them over anytime. He would baby-sit, feed them, change them and most importantly he gave them a love that only a grandfather could give. He showed them off, he flashed their pictures wherever he went, to whomever he encountered. Everyone knew about JA's beautiful grand babies.

My youngest daughter has been a very sensitive child from birth. If you just looked at her sternly she would break out into tears. And always she would run crying into the safe and comforting haven of Poppi's arms. He would scoop her up and say, "Tell Poppi, what's the matter? What do you want? Poppi will get it for you. Poppi will make it better." My oldest daughter got used to being spoiled early on. If I said no, she would go to Poppi, look up at him with big sad eyes and of course he would always say "What do you want baby?" No matter the answer, Poppi got it for her, by whatever means. My girls always knew Poppi would come through for them. He was their hero. And he will always be mine.

My clearest memories of times spent with JA will always be laughter. He was one of the happiest people I have ever known. He could see the silliness in almost any situation and say something funny and everyone would break out into peals of laughter. His happiness was infectious. You couldn't help but catch it. And it was good. Laughing until the tears were running down your face and holding your stomach because you were laughing so hard. This was JA's trademark. His ability to make you feel good.

JA crossed over on May 13, 1995. Just the way he would have wanted to. Freshly showered and shaved. I know he watches over us and knows how much we love him and miss him. He touched our lives in a way that is unforgettable. I love you JA.

Your daughter forever,

Laura

Some of JA's favorites:

Frank Sinatra

Pink shirts

Sitting by the pool

The company of good friends

Scotch, neat

"This is the life!"

 "Nice country America!"

"It's only money!"

"It's Happy Hour!"