Vincent "Papa" Fiato

April 5, 1922 - November 22, 2017

Vincent “Papa” Fiato passed away November 26, 2017 peacefully at his daughter’s home with his loving family by his side. Papa was born in his parent’s home in Herkimer, New York on April 5, 1922. He was a Master Carpenter in both New York and New Mexico. He loved people, cooking, dancing, beautiful women and wine. Papa resided in Elephant Butte, New Mexico for the past 30 years and was active in the American Legion Post 44 in Elephant Butte. Papa is survived by his children: Alex (Rita) Fiato, Frances (Bruce) Bull, Vincene (Don) Caruana, Peggy (John) Blakely, James (Maryann) Chester, Marco (Hatti), Karen-Lynn Fiato, his daughters-in-law Maureen Maury, Rhondea Maury, Theresa Maury; and sons-in-law Larry Hughes and Richard Crouse. He was predeceased in death by his parents, Alessandro Fiato and Francesa Maria Moscaro, his wives, Susan Cherry and Winnetta Belle Nye, and his children: Robin Fiato, Tommy Maury, Sharon Maury Hughes, Kenny Maury and Ralph Maury. He was extremely proud of 30 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Family was undeniably the most important part of his life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Post 44 American Legion, Elephant Butte, New Mexico, 87935. A memorial was held in Elephant Butte, New Mexico. Burial will be Tuesday, Sept. 4th, 2018 at 10 in Maplewood Cemetery, Camillus. Papa Fiato, You taught me to appreciate “Red” wine, bottled, boxed and all in between. You taught me how to dance, after you made sure I didn’t have two left feet. You taught me how to fish and not accidentally throw in the fishing pole. You taught me that my Italian temper was genetic, and good luck to any man that tries to tame it. You taught me that selective hearing can benefit any situation. You taught me how to drive a golf cart because golfing wasn’t my sport. You taught me that dessert is a primary food group and ice cream should be consumed out of the gallon container. You taught me the Fiato backhand how to always listen to my mother.