Francesco "Frank" Zangari

Francesco "Frank" Zangari, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. He was 87 years old.

Born in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, Frank was the cherished son of the late Francesca (Rigitano) and Pietro Zangari. He was raised on Mount Prospect Avenue in Newark, New Jersey-a place that shaped his character and became the backdrop for lifelong friendships and traditions. Weekly luncheons on Bloomfield Avenue were more than just meals; they were a reflection of enduring bonds, shared laughter, and memories woven over time.

Frank's life was grounded in deep faith, unwavering love for his family, and a heart full of generosity. A devout Catholic, he attended Mass daily and was a longtime communicant of St. Vincent De Paul Roman Catholic Church in Stirling, NJ, before joining Our Lady of Lourdes in Whitehouse Station. His faith was his compass-quiet but strong-and it carried him through every chapter of his life.

Frank was a man of many passions. He loved the thrill of horse racing and the peaceful moments spent fishing in his later years. He had a talent for drawing and a curious mind that found joy in inventing small gadgets to make life around the house a little easier. But perhaps nothing lit up his spirit more than the warmth of his kitchen. A true food enthusiast, Frank found joy in cooking-especially when it meant bringing his family together.

Family was the heartbeat of Frank's world. His greatest joy came from watching his children and grandchildren grow, cheering from the sidelines at high school games, and seeing the next generation carry on the traditions he held so dear. Sunday dinners were sacred-filled with love, laughter, and the unmistakable aroma of home. Holidays were treasured times, steeped in rituals and stories passed down through generations, each one a thread in the tapestry of a family bound tightly by love.

Frank Zangari leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and deep familial devotion. His presence was a blessing, his love unwavering, and his memory a guiding light. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten, living on in the hearts and traditions of all who knew and loved him.

Frank is survived by his loving wife Betty (Brooks) of 61 years. He was the proud father of Frances (Manny) Caravano, Frank Zangari, Jodi (Dan) Schneider and Peter (April) Zangari. He is also survived by his two sisters, Angela Coffey and Anne Marie Tully. He is the proud grandfather of Nicole and her husband Keith, Cristina, Francesca and her husband Kevin, Samantha, Alexis, Frankie, Emily, Danny and Matthew. And the loving "Great" to Dominic, Anthony and Lucas.

Frank was predeceased by his brothers Ted, Jimmy, Peter, Anthony and sisters Rose and Teresa

Visitation will be Sunday, May 18th 2025 from 2pm-6pm at the Valley Memorial Funeral Home, 1012 Valley Rd, Gillette, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, May 19th 2025 at 10:30am at St. Vincent de Paul RC Church in Stirling, NJ. Burial will follow at St. Vincent De Paul Cemetery in Stirling.
Memorial contributions can be made to Hunterdon Hospice Foundation or Mt. Carmel Society Berkeley Heights,NJ. For more information and online condolences visit valleymemorialfuneralhome.net