In Loving Memory of Francesco (Frank) Velotta
A Life Well-Lived, Filled with Love and Laughter
It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we bid farewell to Frank Velotta, a man who brought the value of love, family, and hard work to all he did and to all who knew him. Frank's journey on this earth may have come to an end, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
A Proud and Loyal Member
For over 60 years Frank was a member of Local 860, dedicating nearly 35 years with the Fabrizi Trucking and Paving Company who by extension he considered 'family.' He took great pride in his work and company as it grew over the years. Frank's skill and determination was evident in every project he undertook, and he would proudly point out old job sites as he drove his family around. His perseverance and hard work served as an inspiration to all who knew him.
For over five decades, as a member of the Baranello Lodge, Frank proudly joined fellow friends and family in gathering and continuing the values and traditions from his hometown.
Family, Faith, and Traditions
Above all else, Frank was a devoted family man. Despite his tough exterior at times, he often reminded us that love was communicated through his heart- and not always through his words. He loved his wife Rita, their four children and spouses, and ten grandchildren. He would go to great lengths to ensure their happiness and well-being. Frank celebrated 4 seasons throughout the year: Sausage, Garden, Tomato, and Wine. Frank passed down cherished Italian traditions to his children, teaching them the art of making homemade sausage, prosciutto and the world's greatest red wine, the joy of picking fresh tomatoes for sauce, putting down the fig tree post garden, and the importance of family gatherings filled with love, laughter, and good food.
Favorite Memories from his Grandchildren
Playing the Accordion and Harmonica. Storytelling after dinner. Hunting/Fishing. Singing/dancing. Lottery tickets. Bamboo flutes. Scarpetta. Tractor rides. Deer feeding. Blasting Italian (folk) music. Red handkerchief. Backyard tree swing. Grandpa's "Oh-oH" response when called for dinner. Dinner time stories. Pretending to be asleep on the recliner. Amish Country trips. Sleepovers. Billy Bass, the singing fish. The green coin pouch. Peppermint candies. Bird stories. Bocce ball. Live lamb for Easter dinners. Squeezing chubby baby cheeks. Dump truck as a slide. Mapping perimeters of forts using old bricks in the woods. Grandparents Day at schools. Banana splits with chocolate ice cream.
Remembering Frank
As we say goodbye to Frank, let us remember the joy he brought into our lives. From his genuine smile to his stubborn spirit, he left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Frank may be gone, but his love and laughter will forever echo in our hearts, and through his family.
Frank C. Velotta, age 84. Beloved husband of 58 years to Rita (nee DiPadova). Dear father of Tony (Terry Lalond Knepper), Carla Nidy (Dave), Laura Shafer (Dale) and Anna Tolin (Chris). Grandfather of Samantha, Marco, Emily, Zachary, JoAnna, Dominic, Katrina, Christian, Jordan, Juliet. Son of the late Liberato and Filomena. Brother of Tony (Maria) and the late Nicola, Filomena, Rosa, Maria, Giovanni, and Lina. Brother-in-law of Maria (Nello), John (Debbie), Joe (Ellen), Graziano (Mary), Claudio (Jeannemarie) and the late Mario. Passed away Monday, April 15, 2024. Memorials may be forwarded to Holy Family Hospice, 6707 State Road,
Parma, OH 44134. Prayer service at the funeral home Friday, April 19 at 10:45am followed by Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Church, Parma, at 11:30am. Entombment at Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends may call at the BUSCH FUNERAL HOME, 7501 Ridge Road, Parma on Thursday, April 18 from 4:00-8:00pm. 440-842-7800 www.buschcares.com
*In loving memory of Frank Velotta, a remarkable man who lived life to the fullest and left an everlasting impact on all who knew him.*
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