Donato Luigi Casale, age 69, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026. Born and raised in Wilmington's Little Italy neighborhood, Donato was the beloved son of Italian immigrants, Donata (Pesce) and Gerardo Casale. He graduated from St. Anthony of Padua Grade School and St. Elizabeth High School as a member of the Class of 1974.

Donato spent much of his childhood, teenage, and adult years working in the family business, Gerardo's Pizza on Union Street in Wilmington. He later helped expand the family business by opening additional locations in downtown Wilmington and Hockessin, Delaware. Following his years in the restaurant business, he went on to work in several casinos throughout the Delaware area, including Hollywood Casino Perryville and Harrah's Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack.

Donato enjoyed sports, especially hockey, and had a deep appreciation for the music of The Beatles. During his younger years, he enjoyed spending time at the family beach house in Broadkill Beach, where many lasting memories were made and lifelong friendships began. Those friendships remained close and meaningful throughout his life.

Above all else, Donato's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was his family. He was a truly devoted father and grandfather whose children and grandson brought immeasurable happiness, purpose, and love to his life.

Donato is survived by his children, Maura Casale and Joseph Casale; his grandson, Julian; his siblings and their spouses, Rita Casale Rizzo, Lucy "Chana" and Chick Mealey, Bruno and Lisa Casale, Loreto "Larry" and Dina Casale, and Silvia and Tim Joswick; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with funeral services to begin at 12 p.m. at the Mealey Funeral Home. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Donato may be made to PanCAN in support of pancreatic cancer research and awareness.