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By Paul Chasko

With a lot of photos being taken and live musical entertainment at a very special luncheon, Mario DeVito was a bit overwhelmed at his 100th birthday celebration at Mount Vernon of South Park.

Mario making the first cut in his birthday cake

He was joined at his table by his daughter, Linda Moorhead of Pleasant Hills, and their close friend Ellen Kenney. The Mount Vernon dining room was crowded with fellow residents enjoying the celebration over their lunch. The one-man entertainer was doing his best to work in a good many Italian/American musical selections, which Mario was obviously enjoying.

Mario was born in Italy and was 39 years of age when he immigrated to the US. In Italy he was in government service, both as a civilian and in the military. On passing through the Ellis Island immigration system, he joined his brothers in the US in the landscaping business. He decided to retire in his early 50s but worked part-time to keep himself busy. Mario has two children, Linda and Ryan Moorhead. He also has two grandchildren – Archer is five and Max is three (Ryan’s children). Mario enjoys their visits to Mount Vernon, where he’s been a resident for about a year and a half. Mario’s wife passed in 2001.

As expected, Mario and his daughter Linda were quizzed on how he spent his life to reach this centennial celebration. Well, walking to and from East Liberty to Shadyside where he worked probably helped. He also loved working in the garden raising vegetables and roses. According to Linda, he was always active and worked hard but everything else was in moderation. He quit smoking early on, enjoyed a glass of red wine on most days, and never overate.

Of course, there was a large sheet cake decorated appropriately for Mario’s 100th birthday. Happy birthday, Mario!

Click on "Gallery" to view more photos of Mario's Birthday party by Paul Chasko

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