Frank Fornataro Sr., 79, formerly of Ellwood City, a beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away on June 6, 2012 after an extended illness.

He was born in New Castle on August 5, 1932 to the late Augustine (Gus) and Lena Geramita Fornataro.

Frank was a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, assigned as a High Speed Radio Operator to the 352nd Recon Company. He was awarded the National Defense, Korean and United Nations Service Medals.

Frank resided in North Sewickley Township for almost forty years. He was an electrician, retired from Babcock and Wilcox and from Fornataro Electric in Ellwood city, a company he founded.

He is survived by his children, LouAnn Fornataro of New Hampshire and Virginia, Annette (Fornataro) Cox and her husband Dennis of Virginia, Linda (Fornataro) Hansen of Fombell, Frank Fornataro Jr. and his wife Maria (DeMino), Daniel A. Fornataro of Ellwood City; his grandchildren, Steven Hansen, Tiffani (Cox) Kuchyt and her husband Patrick, Dennis Michael Cox II, Casey Hansen, Madison Pedaline and Daniel A Fornataro Jr. Also surviving is his brother, Augustine (Gus) Fornataro and his wife Grace (Guttuso) of North Sewickley Township, and his sister, Mary Lou (Fornataro) McGonigle of New Castle.

Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Harold McGonigle all of New Castle.

At Frank's request, a celebration of his life is planned for family and friends at a later date.

Donations may be made in Franks name to the Parkinson Research Foundation, 8586 Potter Park Dr., Sarasota, FL 34238.

Arrangements are by the J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 111 W. Falls St. New Castle.

Condolences may be sent to his family by visiting www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com.