Joseph Markwood Frank

Joseph M. Frank, 90, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of December 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on December 13, 1934 in New Castle, Joseph was the son of Joseph Frank and Clara Baxter Frank. He attended New Castle High School and began his lifelong career with the P&LE and CSX Railroads in his late teens. From 1954 to 1958, he proudly served in the United States Air Force Medical Corps during the Korean War.
Upon returning home, Joseph married his sweetheart, Polly A. Pratt, on October 3, 1959, at the BVM Catholic Church in Ellwood City. The two first met on a dance floor. An encounter that would become the beginning of their lifelong love story. Joseph later retired from the P&LE Railroad in 1993 after 45 years of dedicated service.
Joseph enjoyed a full and active life. He loved hunting, bowling, golfing, gardening, and spending time with his family. A talented tinkerer, he spent countless hours building and fixing things in his barn, always happiest with a project in front of him. He had a deep love for animals and was known for his gentle way with them. He especially loved his fur kitties, Buster and Angelo and his grand-kitties, Peep and Izzy. He loved children dearly and created countless cherished memories for family and friends by being the best Santa Claus. His warmth and joy will always be felt during the holiday season.
Joseph also loved watching Westerns, especially anything starring John Wayne, and spent many relaxing afternoons watching golf and football. He loved cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also loved to cook and was known for making his famous birthday cakes that everyone looked forward to year after year.
Among his family's favorite memories is Joseph and Polly dancing to 1950's music at their 50th anniversary celebration. He treasured the camaraderie of his morning coffee gatherings with friends at McDonald's and looked forward each year to his week-long golf trips to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with his brothers-in-law, the proud members of their self-titled, BGA, the Bad Golfer's Association. Joseph was a member of First Assembly of God in New Castle, Victory Christian Center in Lowellville, Ohio, and the Sons of Italy in Ellwood City.
Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Polly; his devoted daughter, Jodi Frank of New Castle; his sister, Christine (Roy) Painter of North Huntington; sisters-in-law, Pamela J. Pratt of Santa Barbara, California, Ollie J. Pratt of New Castle, Pennsylvania, and Susan Pratt of New Castle, Pennsylvania; brothers-in-law, Richard (Elaine) Pratt of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, and Paul (Rali) Pratt of Santa Barbara, California; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Anthony Frank, Albert Frank, and Samuel L. Frank; his sisters, Rose Marie Grzesiuk and Mary Alice Nuzzo; and his brother-in-law, Judge Ralph D. Pratt.
Joseph leaves behind a legacy of integrity, resilience, and hard work. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will be forever remembered. Though his family will carry the weight of missing him, they are profoundly grateful for the privilege of loving and caring for him.
Although there will be no funeral visitation, a private celebration of Joseph's life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ed & Don DeCarbo Funeral Home & Crematory, 941 S. Mill St.