Kurt Palm Fiato

Kurt entered this world as a miracle for his parents, Dennis P. and Bonnie B. (Hoy) Fiato, who very patiently and lovingly raised him. His smile from very early on would be a signature of how he affected the lives of everyone he encountered.

Even though on the outside, Kurt gave the impression that he was a carefree soul, on the inside, he always had meticulous and ambitious personal and professional plans. For example, he aspired to travel to all seven continents, and last year he finished this goal by visiting Africa. He also earned a black belt in karate at a young age.

In a similar way, he worked on the foundation of his professional path early. He joined the Marines immediately after graduating from Shaker High School. After four years of military service, including active duty in Iraq, he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Siena College.

Kurt joined First New York Federal Credit Union after graduating and eventually rose to the rank of Manager of Accounting where he was loved, trusted, and respected by his coworkers. Throughout his career, he kept his personality and particular sense of humor.

The friends he made in life, he kept and cherished. He commonly played video games online with them, went camping or traveling together, or targeted each other with paintballs. These bonds of friendship were based not only on fun but also more importantly on trust.

Despite his perpetual search for the best value, Kurt was a very generous person and shared his findings with others. He would always put all his knowledge in service of what was needed, including driving his soon-to-be sister-in-law to the wedding in record time without breaking any traffic laws, or even a sweat, in the 100-degree temperature. In other words, Kurt always completed the mission.

Kurt’s life tragically ended before its time, alongside one of his best friends, Kyle Walsh, during a music festival they loved to attend every year. The space Kurt leaves will never be filled, but he left so many memories and love that he will be remembered with a full heart.

He was predeceased by his father, Dennis P. Fiato, and his grandparents, Palm S. and Dorothy L. (Salerno) Fiato and Morris and Dolores (Gougeon) Hoy. He is survived by his loving mother; brother Randy D. (Esperanza Cecilia) Fiato, of Norwalk, CT; half-sister Denise (Gary) Greer and family; aunts, uncles, and cousins; and loving dog Keani.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in his name to the American Kidney Fund or to the Wounded Warrior Project. Scroll for direct links.

A combined Memorial Celebration for Kyle & Kurt will be planned for

Friday May 29th 4-8pm upstairs at

VFW Post 8692

140 VFW Drive, Colonie, NY 12205

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