Mr. Frank Potestio, age 98, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Monday, November 30, 2015.
Frank was born in Grimaldi, Italy on May 25, 1917. In 1951, he immigrated to Canada, so that he could provide a better life for his family. In 1953, he was followed by his wife Rosa and children John, Mario and Angela, settling in then, Port Arthur. Several years later they were blessed with another son, Tony.
Frank worked for the R.F Weck Company and Great Lakes as head cook for railway, extra gangs and logging camps. In 1964, he opened up his successful “Frank’s Restaurant” specializing in Italian cuisine. He retired in 1982 to spend more time with his passions, his family and beautiful garden.
Along with his wife and daughter, they wintered in Acopulco, along with many Grimaldese “Paesani” for nearly 25 years. Frank was a WWII veteran and a recipient of the Medal of Merit, from the Italian Government. He was a member of St. Anthony’s Church and the Italian Hall.
Frank is survived and will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 77 years, Rosa; his sons John (Alba), Mario (Denise), Tony (Heather) and daughter Angie; grandchildren Mario Jr, Rose, Margaret, Frank (Maureen), Rose (Darwin), Alana and Alexa (Potestio); great grandchildren Paula and Amanda (Bakke), Violet, Mario, Paul and Dylan (Cross), Alexander and Erica (Potestio), Justine, Frank and Tomas (Hawkins); as well as numerous nieces and nephews, here and in Italy. Frank was predeceased by his grandson Frank Potestio.
At this time we would like to give out our heartfelt thanks to the doctors and medical professionals at the Thunder Bay Regional and St. Joseph’s Hospital, and a special thank you to Dr. Scali for his many years of care.
Funeral Services for Mr. Frank Potestio will be held on Tuesday, December 8, 2015, leaving Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 N. Cumberland St. at 10:30 a.m. to St. Anthony’s R.C. Church for Funeral Mass starting at 11:00 a.m celebrated by Rev. Luigi Filippini. A private entombment will follow in the family mausoleum in St. Andrew’s Cemetery. Visitation for friends will be held at the Harbourview Funeral Centre on Monday, December 7, 2015, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. with Vigil Prayers offered at 7:00 p.m.
As expressions of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph’s Hospital would be greatly appreciated.
Online condolences may be offered at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca
