Carl Vincent Locati

Carl Vincent Locati of Walla Walla passed away on September 1, 2014 at Washington Odd Fellows Home. Carl was born the son of Joseph C. & Angelina (Vinti) Locati on August 26, 1933.

After his graduation from Walla Walla High School in 1951, Carl enlisted in the United States Air Force. The majority of his four-year tour was served in Japan.

When he returned to Walla Walla, Carl worked at Birdseye Frozen Foods before opening his own welding & fabrication business, Locati Welding. Carl was one of the first in the valley to offer mobile welding and repair to area farmers. He was also one of the first welders in the area to master the art of heliarc welding.

Carl followed his father’s knack for growing vegetables on the family farm. Althogh he raised a variety of vegetables, it was his contract with Nalley’s that allowed him to provide jobs for the youth of Walla Walla picking cucumbers. Many people still remember Carl for his willingness to help young people in the valley.

In 1974, he married Dolores (Nonne) Reilly. Carl & Dee celebrated 40 years together.

A lifelong member of St. Francis Catholic Church, Carl was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Duane Tompkins and sister-in-law, Patricia Locati. Carl is survived by his wife, Dolores; sisters, Helen Tompkins & Patricia Locati; brother, Frank Locati and numerous nieces & nephews.

Viewing & visitation will be held on Monday, September 8, 2014 from 10:00 AM until after the Rosary at the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla. The Rosary will be recited on Monday, September 8, 2014 at 6:30 PM at the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at 10:00 AM at St. Francis Catholic Church with Father Brian Gaines, Celebrant. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Christian Aid Center or St. Francis Catholic Church through the funeral home.