A Mass of Christian burial will be held for Dolores “Dede” Casciato at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2014, at All Saints Catholic Church, 3847 N.E. Glisan St. Dede died July 21, 2014, of a heart attack.

Dede was born September 28, 1923, in Portland. She was the second child of Pete and Florence Carlo. A lifelong resident of the city, she graduated from Washington High School and attended Marylhurst College for one year. She worked as a bookkeeper for a series of local businesses until she married Anthony L. “Tony” Casciato in 1950. From then on, she devoted herself to her family.

Blessed with abundant organizational ability, Dede could have run a major corporation. Instead, she managed a husband, home and four rambunctious children. She excelled at bringing order out of chaos, and her ability to juggle competing priorities while getting dinner on the table was legendary. She also had a sure sense of direction, whether it involved looking for a freeway exit or guiding her husband and children along the right path. In addition, Dede was a superb judge of character. Although she considered herself shy, Dede enjoyed being with people. She connected easily and instinctively with everyone from toddlers to politicians. She was a loyal friend, a tireless booster and a great companion on a road trip.

Dede was an extraordinary wife who gave her husband tremendous love and devotion, along with a great deal of sensible advice. As a mother, she encouraged her children to pursue their dreams and imparted to them her love of travel and adventure.

Apart from her family, Dede’s greatest passion was playing bridge. She was a tournament-quality player who was always looking for a game. She was also an avid reader and enjoyed knitting, needlepoint, jigsaw puzzles and hunting for antiques.

In addition to her husband, Tony, Dede is survived by her daughters, Mary Jo Binker and Nancy Casciato; son, Tom; daughters-in-law, Regina Casciato and Kathleen Hughes; sons-in-law, Roland Binker and Kenn Walton; sister, Rosaria Guinasso; six grandchildren; and innumerable nieces, nephews and cousins.

Her elder brother, Donald, and oldest son, Peter, preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Albertina Kerr Center.

Facts Born: September 28, 1923
Death: July 21, 2014