Francis J. (Frank) Violanti, 93, from the Minooka section of Scranton passed away peacefully Tuesday, Nov. 15 at Green Ridge Health Care Center. He was the husband of the late Kathryn A. (Kay) Thornton Violanti who passed away on March 28, 1996 after 40 happily married years together.
He was a member of Divine Mercy Parish. Born and raised in Archbald, he was the son of the late Francis and Rose Marasco Violanti, and a graduate of Archbald High School. A US Army veteran, he proudly served overseas during the Korean War. Frank and Kay married Sept. 17, 1955 and raised their family in their lifelong home on Pittston Ave. They felt blessed to have shared their lives with wonderful neighbors and friends in the community.
Prior to retirement Frank worked for the US Postal Service. His love of cooking for family and friends led to the start of Violanti Catering Service which he owned and operated for many years in addition to his primary job. Spending time with his wife and children was paramount for Frank. Summer vacations and gatherings with friends and relatives were relished and he fondly reminisced about them. One of the greatest joys of his life was the time he spent with his two grandchildren, who affectionately called him Pop. He felt fortunate to see them grow up to be caring adults. He was also fortunate to meet his partner Sharon Stanvitch over 20 years ago. They enjoyed each other's company, shared many good times and travels, and expanded their circles to include each other's family and friends.
Frank was at his best when caring for others. He was an affectionate and generous man with a good sense of humor, who took every opportunity to tell his family he loved them. Frank will be missed, but his love and spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of his family and those who love him.
Surviving is his partner, Sharon Stanvitch, Scranton; four children, Frank Violanti Jr. Pocatello, Idaho; Mary Ellen and husband Larry Michela, San Diego; Cindy and husband Frank McLane, Newtown, Pa.; Michael Violanti, New York; two grandchildren, Jack and Kate McLane, Newtown, Pa.; brother, Joseph Violanti Sr. and wife Barbara, The Villages, Fla.; sister-in-law, Ramona Violanti, and cousin, Josephine Violanti Rogan, both of Archbald; and nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Pauline Violanti Condi; brother, Anthony Violanti; nephew, Gary Violanti; and brother-in-law, Robert Thornton.
Frank's family would like to thank his longtime physician Dr. Yvonne Galella, the staff at the Green Ridge Care Center and Hospice of the Sacred Heart for their compassionate care. Also their lifelong neighbor and Frank's dear friend, Joseph Flannelly Jr. for his kindness and assistance over the years.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday Dec. 3, 10 a.m. at Divine Mercy Parish at St. Joseph's Church, 312 Davis St., to be celebrated by the Rev. Francis Pauselli, pastor. Interment at Cathedral Cemetery with military honors provided by AMVETS of Greater Pittston. Friends may call before Mass, from 9 to 10 a.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, or St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen.
Arrangements, Neil W. Regan Funeral Home Inc., 1900 Pittston Ave. To e-mail condolences, please visit the funeral home website.