Vito Matthew Rao, 92, of Boca Raton, FL, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2024, with his loving wife by his side. He is survived by his beloved wife, Filomena, his three sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Dr. Rao, as he was affectionately known, received his doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine and devoted his life to the well-being of others. He was a long-time 4th-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, serving as the veteran's liaison. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, he served during the Korean War and received the Distinguished Service Award from the 2nd Marine Division of the United States Marine Corps and Naval Service.

Dating back to the 1990s, Dr. Rao served as the Surgeon General, where he helped numerous veterans with VA benefits. He was the Post Commander Chapter 11 National Service Director for the Italian American War Veterans of the United States. His national awards included the Distinguished Citizens Gold Medal Award in 1996, the Distinguished Citizens Silver Award in 1997, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation from the Broward Law Enforcement Detachment in 1997.

Dr. Rao's military affiliations were numerous and included:

American Legion 9th District Broward County Service Officer (2004)

American Legion Dept of Florida Southern Area Command Service Officer (2005)

American Legion Gold Brigade Membership Award (2002)

American Legion Silver Brigade Membership Award (2002)

American Legion Certificate of Achievement for the status of (Ric's Retrievers) (2003)

American Legion Life Member PUF

American Legion Walter Smith Memorial Service Officer Award (2004)

American Legion Post 245 Boca Raton, FL Service Officer (Past 5 years)

American Legion Post 222 Broward County Florida Post Service Officer (2005)

American Legion Legionnaire of the Year Award Post 245 Palm Beach County (2003)

American Legion Voiture Forty Hommes Et Huit Chevaux Member 890

Department of Veterans Affairs State of Florida Veterans Benefits School for Certification for Broward County Veterans Service Officers

Department of Florida American Legion Post Service Officers Certification course (1992 – 2006)

Department of Veterans Affairs Certification TRIP Program completed at St. Petersburg VA Regional Office (2005)

Broward County Veterans Council Distinguished Leadership & Service Award (2000)

Broward County Veterans Council Senior Vice Chairman (1995 – 2000)

Dr. Rao will always be remembered for his selflessness and dedication to helping veterans in need.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 9:30 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Boca Raton, FL. Burial with full military honors will follow at the South Florida VA National Cemetery, Lake Worth Beach, FL.

Vito Matthew Rao's legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to his country and community will forever be cherished.

Professional arrangements by:

Gary Panoch Funeral Home
6140 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33487
561-997-8580
www.gpanochfunerals.com