Edward Gato, age 78, of Brandon, Florida, passed away peacefully in his sleep while at home on Monday, September 19, 2022.

Edward Gato was born in Key West, Florida in December 1943 where he attended Key West High School.  He then enlisted in the Air Force and served four years.  After serving in the Air Force, Edward then reenlisted in the Army where he was a part of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Ranger Division while serving in Vietnam.  Edward retired from the Army in 1977 ranked Captain and was awarded the Purple Heart along with other honorable medals.  His post-military accomplishments included owning his own Century 21 Real Estate franchise office, starting the Edward Gato Real Estate School and earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and E-Business from Kaplan University where he graduated summa cum laude.  He loved fishing, sailing, scuba diving, gardening and cooking.  Edward was a fabulous chef.

Edward is survived by his loving wife, Elaine, of 21 years, as well as, son Joseph Gato, daughter Michelle (Hanalei) Perreira, stepson Jeffrey (Jennifer) Tyler, sisters Ana Vallery and Lucy Purdue along with eight grandchildren and his dog, Chula.  Preceding Edward were parents Enrique and Clara Gato and brother Arthur.

Edward will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia, on a date to be determined.  In acknowledgement of Edward's memory, an Honor and Memorial Donation in Edward's name may be made at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate .