Remembering \'happy smile\'\, hundreds attend funeral of Mick Gatto\'s son

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Remembering 'happy smile', hundreds attend funeral of Mick Gatto's son

The son of alleged underworld figure Mick Gatto has been remembered for his happy smile and sense of fun.

A funeral for Justin Christopher Gatto was held at Richmond's St Ignatius' Catholic Church on Friday, attended by hundreds of mourners.

He died on October 30 – four days after his 34th birthday – after falling from a central Melbourne apartment block.

"With your happy smile, and sense of fun, we can't believe that you are gone," read a written tribute handed to mourners.

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"You brought so much joy to every life you touched and you are missed, so very much.

"But, a beautiful soul lives on forever and memories of you we will always treasure."

The message, titled Missing You, also reads rest in peace, "free from all pain".

Among the hundreds of people gathered at St Ignatius' Church were underworld figure Toby Mitchell, construction union boss John Setka and former Richmond footballer Jake King.

The funeral service began with Louis Armstrong's What A Wonderful World.

A white floral tribute in the shape of a cross was carried from the church, before a silver coffin with gold detail was placed in a hearse, with Mr Gatto a pallbearer.

After the service, mourners quietly lined up to offer condolences, shaking hands, giving hugs and kisses to the Gatto family.

Mr Gatto's wife, Cheryle, sat on a chair in the courtyard next to him as she hugged mourners.

Mourners were asked to donate to mental health organisation Headspace, "in line with Justin's wishes".

A private burial with family will follow the service.

Anyone needing support can contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or beyondblue 1300 22 4636.

AAP