‘Smooth Sounds’ entertainer Steven Silicato dies at 64

Steven R. Silicato passed away Aug. 27 at his home in Aston, Pennsylvania, at age 64.

He was known throughout the region for his act, “the Smooth Sounds of Steve Silicato,” which he performed in restaurants and nightclubs and at special functions. He often told his fans that by singing the songs of Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett and others, he was singing “the soundtrack of their lives.”

He serenaded a dancing crowd at the St. Anthony of Padua Italian Festival on June 15.

His son Sonny took to FaceBook to share the news about his father, whom he called “one of a kind” and a “larger than life” personality.

“It warms our spirits to see how many people loved and admired our dad,” he wrote. “He loved to make people laugh and feel appreciated. One of his biggest joys in life was singing and entertaining. He had the natural ability to make the silent-shy person at a bar or restaurant smile/laugh, sing or dance.”

Mr. Silicato was born and raised in Wilmington, attending Salesianum School and graduating from St. Elizabeth’s High School, where he was a standout athlete.

He graduated from West Chester University with a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice and political science. While at West Chester, he played football and baseball.

He built a career in the environmental contracting fi eld at Marcor Remediation and Demolition in Hunt Valley, Maryland, reaching the position of vice president of sales and business development. He was also a nationally published author and accomplished speaker in health, safety and environmental services. His most recent position was vice president of business development with DKI Services.

He and his family lived in Aston, Pennsylvania, for more than 30 years. They also enjoyed living in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, for 15 years.

Steve enjoyed being a longtime member of the Prince of Piedmont Lodge in Wilmington, and was a proud and passionate member of the Societa da Vinci.

He is survived by his wife, of more than 30 years, Patricia Palermo Silicato; three children, Alexa (Marco), Steven (Rosie) and Francesca (Dom) Silicato; his mother Eileen Reid Silicato; six sisters; Ava, Antoinette, JoAnne, Lisa, and Mary Silicato, Nancy (Lawrence) DeNisio; his mother-in-law Lucy; sister-in-law Gloria (Ron) Kirkland; two brothers-in-law, Mike (Tracy) and Lou (Maddalena) Palermo, and many nieces and nephews.

Steve is preceded in death by his father, Anthony “Tough Tony” Silicato; his beloved nephew Fabio DeNisio; and his loyal dog Duke.

Mass of Christian Burial was Sept. 1 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Wilmington. Interment was in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Springfield, Pa.

In tribute to Silicato’s commitment to this organization, donations may be made to the Societa da Vinci in care of Albert M. Greto, Esq., 715 N. Tatnall St., Wilmington 19801.