Maxine E. (Burson) Dorato, 72, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on Friday, October 31, 2014, surrounded by her loving family at Niagara Hospice in Lockport, NY. Born in Rockmart, GA she was the daughter of the late CB and Bertie (Morgan) Burson. On June 18, 1960 she married George Dorato in Niagara Falls, NY. They spent 41 beautiful years together until his death in 2001.

Maxine was a very creative and industrious woman who was never afraid to try anything. In 1980, she began a wedding planning and supply business named, "Celebrations." For ten years, she helped hundreds of brides make their wedding a truly special day. Then in 1990, wanting to concentrate on wedding cakes, Maxine's Pastry Pantry opened their doors. Along with her son, George, they created beautiful wedding cakes and delicious Italian pastries and cookies.

Maxine always kept her family close. At one time or another just about all of Maxine's family worked alongside her. Either baking, delivering or sampling the product. The youngest baker, her granddaughter Domenica started at age 7 baking Christmas cookies. Maxine's bakery was a special place where family and friends gathered for a cup of coffee, a biscotti to dunk with lots of love and laughter. Sadly, Maxine retired in 2000 alongside her husband.

Maxine will always be remembered as a loving, compassionate and fun loving person.

Maxine will be sadly missed by her daughter Paula (David) Spacone, son, George Dorato, Jr.; three grandchildren, Domenica (Anthony) Kutis, David D Spacone, Jr. and Michael Spacone; two great grandchildren, Jude Patrick and Adelena Kutis; her companion, Thomas Migliazzo; three brothers, James Burson, Claude (Denise) Burson and Michael (Kathy) Burson. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Paul and Nancy Dorato, Robert and Maryanne Dorato, Marge (late Michael) Dorato, as well many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 4th from 3 – 6:00 P.M. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls where funeral services will follow at 6:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Niagara Hospice House, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094.