Francis L. Donato, 94 years old, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026. Born in 1932 in Vineland, NJ, he was a lifelong resident of Landisville, NJ. He attended Vineland Public Schools and later Rutgers University in New Brunswick. He excelled in cross-country and wrestling.

Francis served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, stationed in France during the Korean war era. He returned home to the Donato Brothers family farm located in Landisville, NJ. After many years of farming he transitioned to agricultural services for companies in South Jersey where he was highly respected. Francis was an active member at the American Legion Post in Minotola where he participated in many activities, especially enjoying playing pinochle.

He is survived by his wife Mary, son David Donato, daughter Marisa Moffa (Ray), his grandchildren, Jessica Bogaert (Sam), Caitlin Weigand (Tim), Matthew Donato and James Donato (Emily) and great-granddaughters, Lily and Willow. Also sister Elena Caterina, nephew Frank Caterina (Robyn), and niece Vanessa McCabe (Justin). Francis will be missed by his family and friends for his sense of humor and kindness.

Services will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Our Lady of Victories Church, 202 Northwest Blvd., Landisville, NJ 08326. Visitation will be at 10:00am. Immediately following will be a mass at 11:00am. Interment will be private.

Please visit www.wbfuneralhome.com to send online condolences to the family.

Arrangements are by the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.