John Robert Amato

Born on May 2, 1942, in Portland, to parents Francis and Waneta Amato, he was the grandson of Michelina and Giovanni Amato, the inventor of the Original Amato's Italian Sandwich. Bobby lived above the Amato's Sandwich shop on India Street in Portland as a baby, while his father served in the Navy during World War II.

As a young boy, his family moved to Falmouth where he attended Falmouth schools, graduating in the class of 1960. He completed a post-graduate year in 1961 at Tilton School in New Hampshire.

After graduating, John attended The University of Denver, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. After graduating in 1968, he continued his education at The University of Denver School of Law, graduating with his J.D. in 1971. During his youthful years, John had a passion for great cars and riding motorcycles.

After finishing graduate school, he decided to forgo practicing law and returned to Maine to help his father with the family business. They opened an Amato's Sandwich Shop in Windham and eventually he and the family would go on to build Amato's Restaurant, which he continued until his retirement.

When not working, Bobby enjoyed time with family and friends. He had very happy years on Pleasant Lake in Casco with his wife of 21 years, Brenda; and his children whom he adored. A lover of all animals, he always had a loyal dog by his side. In his later years he took great delight in his eight grandchildren. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit, and love for his children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Paul and Gregory.

Bobby is survived by his children: daughter, Karee Amato, and son-in law, Mike Carmichael, and grandchildren, Harrison, Griffin, Tillman, Stone and Reade, of Falmouth; and his son, Adam, and his wife, Maria Higgins, and grandchildren, Aaron, Emily and Danny, of Falmouth.

He is also survived by his brother, Francis "Skip" Amato, and wife, Karen, of New Hampshire, and niece and nephew, Lisa and Michael; and sister in-law, Vickie Amato, and niece and nephew, Amy and Andrew. He is also survived by a sister, Lauren, and her husband, David Hendry, and niece, Aubrie.

The family wishes to acknowledge, with gratitude, the years of care provided by the staff at Sedgewood Commons and the amazing care team at Maine Medical Center, along with the nurses from Hospice of Southern Maine, who compassionately made his final days peaceful.

Friends and family are invited to a time of visitation from 4-7 p.m. Monday, April 2, 2018, at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland. A private family graveside funeral service will be planned at a later date. To sign Bob's online guest book, please visit: www.jonesrichandbarnes.com.