Paul G. D'Amato

EAST BROOKFIELD: Paul G. D'Amato, 76, of E.Brookfield, died Monday, Feb. 19th. at his home after a four-year battle with a rare brain disorder, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.

A Celebration of Life for Paul will be held Sunday, Oct. 13th. from 1-5 p.m. at the Brick Box Theatre, 20B Franklin Street, Worcester, MA 01608.

He leaves his partner of 23 years, Marina Re with whom he lived; his sister Andrea L. D'Amato and her partner Rose Gordon, and niece Nandita Smithback all of Santa Fe, NM.; his Aunt Pat, Uncle Michael, and many cousins.
Paul was born in Worcester, the son of Albert A. and Beatrice (Bercume) D'Amato and later graduated from Framingham North High School and Emerson College. He served his country with the MA. Army National Guard. Paul had a critically acclaimed acting career that spanned over 5 decades both on stage and screen. He was best known for playing Tim "Dr. Hook" McCracken in the cult classic SLAPSHOT, and for his iconic role as the Green Beret in the Deer Hunter. His menacing "crazy eyes" look of Dr. Hook was the inspiration for John Byrne's illustration of Wolverine. Paul spent 40 years in the ski industry, working as a master boot fitter and ski technician both at Paragon Sports in NYC and Wachusett Mountain in MA. Since 2001, Paul dedicated much of his life to charitable efforts, raising thousands for worthy causes especially those supporting children in need. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness generosity and will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.

The J. HENRI MORIN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 23 Maple Terr., Spencer is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CurePSP or www.psp.org