Walter DiDonato, a beloved husband, father, pop pop, brother, friend, craftsman, and lifelong New York Jets fan, passed away peacefully at home on Friday morning, July 17, 2026. He was 73 years old.

Born on March 20, 1953, Walter was a man who knew how to build things that lasted. For more than 50 years, he owned and operated D&D Mason Contractors, dedicating his life to the craft of masonry. With his hands, his vision, and an incredible work ethic, he worked with stone and built more than walls, patios, and structures - he built a legacy. A proud Mason, Walter understood the value of hard work. He loved being outside and enjoying the simple things in life. He was also a devoted New York Jets fan, remaining loyal through every season and every heartbreak.

Most importantly, Walter had a deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Later in life, his faith was important to him. He found comfort and strength in his relationship with the Lord. Those who loved him take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace and in the presence of his Savior.

But above all else, Walter was a family man. He shared 52 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved bride, Catherine, building a life and a family together. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren, creating memories with them and sharing his wisdom, his stories, and his time. To his grandchildren, he was not only their Pop-Pop, but someone whose presence, love, and example will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

The greatest things he built were not made of stone at all. He built a family. He built a business. He built friendships. He built a life filled with hard work, love, memories, and faith. And perhaps the greatest foundation he built was the one rooted in his relationship with Jesus Christ.

Walter is predeceased by his cherished son, Bryan, in 2009.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 52 years, Catherine; his children, Kelly, Leah and Tara; their spouses TJ, Lou and Fiance Stephen; his grandchildren Sean, Ryan, Louis, Matthew, Mason, Ava & Molly, whom he adored; and his extended family along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will take place at Higgins Home for Funerals in Watchung, NJ, on Monday, July 20th, from 4-8 pm, and a memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 21st, at 11 am at Woodside Chapel in Scotch Plains.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Woodside Chapel, P.O. Box 481, Fanwood, NJ 07023.