Frank Paul Castellana

Frank Paul Castellana, Korean War Veteran (birth name Francesco Paulo Castellana), passed away peacefully with his family Thursday morning, Nov. 17, 2022.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1929, he was the son of the late Giuseppe and Francesca Castellana.

His parents emigrated from Sicily, Italy, and shared their Italian and English language with Frank growing up.

After graduating from the historic and architecturally notable Boys High School in New York, he served in the U.S. Army, Third division in Korea, stationed in Japan. Frank was a food instructor during his time in the Army.

After his years of service, Frank decided to tour Europe a few more years on his own. He set sea and landed in Ireland. Then later he traveled to France, Germany, Holland, Belgium and, of course, Italy. The stories of his travels entertained all who listened. He was a man of many great experiences.

When he returned to the states, he settled back in his hometown of Brooklyn, N.Y. He secured a position as a butcher by day and a taxicab driver by night. Family and friends also loved to hear these stories of his New York night life. These adventures were highlighted by getting to watch his favorite singer - a young Frank Sinatra - perform live many times in New York. He married his wife, Josephine Cann Castellana, who has since passed away. They had two children while living in New York, but in later years moved to Hazleton to be closer to family.

During this time, he became employed by Acme as a butcher/meat cutter for almost 30 years. He loved to share his wisdom of the best cuts of meat. He supplied every single holiday and special occasion with these hand-picked meats carved and cut for his family to enjoy.

He later met Charlotte Ulinitz and had a beautiful relationship for over 30 years. They then continued their travels together to such exciting places such as Las Vegas, New Orleans, Mississippi, Aruba, St. Thomas, Puerto Rico and of course, monthly Atlantic City trips.

He also loved his football! Playing football in high school started this lifelong love of it. He supported the local teams by always rooting them on. Watching the fighting Irish at Notre Dame was yet another wonderful experience he got to enjoy.

He was also a proud member of the McAdoo Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was thrilled that just last year he was the grand marshal of their parade. He was also a member of the Italian club of Hazleton. He cherished these weekly/monthly meetings with his friends.

However, Frank's true devotion was to his children and grandchildren. He was always a loving father and grandfather. His grandchildren were his world. He could always be found at all of his grandchildren's games and events. Frank was a proud father/grandfather and veteran. He was a symbol of a man who loves his family and his country.

Frank will be fondly remembered for his fun-loving spirit and his amazing adventures. He was always the life of the party. But, most of all, he will be remembered for his unconditional love of his family. Frank will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Frank is survived by his devoted children, Frank Castellana Jr. and wife, Mary Ann, Bear Creek; daughter, Elizabeth Curry and husband, James, Mountain Top; grandchildren, Lauren Castellana, Frank Castellana III, James Curry Jr. and Nicholas Curry. Also surviving are his many nieces and nephews who absolutely loved him so much.

Along with his parents, Frank, the youngest sibling, was preceded in death by his brother, Giuseppe Castellana, and three sisters, Carmen, Sadie and Mary.

His Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate his life will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday in Annunciation Parish at St. Gabriel's Church, Hazleton.

Burial will be in Sky-View Memorial Park, Tamaqua.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Joseph A. Moran Funeral Home, with Tom Boyle assisting, 229 W. 12th St., Hazleton.

Condolences may be sent through www.moranfuneralhome.com.