Frank P. Giacalone

He was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Elisa and Joseph Giacalone. He learned the art of wood carving and furniture making from his father and his love for Italian cooking from his mother. He came to Louisville in 1953, and he worked as a patent attorney for General Electric until his retirement. He was an avid golfer and especially enjoyed playing golf with his grandson, Travis.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters, Rose Lombardo and Angie Sanfratello.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Nancy, his son Joseph; his daughter Maria Rose Carlisle (Greg), and his grandson Travis Carlisle (Bridget).

Frank will be remembered as a visionary, advocate, and leader in the field of disabilities. He worked tirelessly as a volunteer to develop education, vocational, employment, recreation, and residential programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities. His leadership in the development and operation of the Council on Development Disabilities, Custom Quality Service, Zoom Group, and Community Living has positively impacted the lives of thousands of persons with disabilities in Louisville. He was a founding member and president of the Kentucky ARC, a member of the Governor's Advisory Council, a board member of metro United Way and Seven Counties Service, and a founding member of the Regional Advocates on Mental Retardation.

His commitment and hard work changed our community's understanding, acceptance, and appreciation of persons with disabilities.

His funeral service will be 2 p.m. Friday, June 20, 2014 at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, with entombment to follow at Resthaven Memorial Park Mausoleum. Guests are invited to attend a visitation on Thursday, from 1-8 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to, The Council on Developmental Disabilities, 1151 South Fourth Street, Louisville, KY 40203 or the Zoom Group, 1904 Embassy Square Blvd, Louisville, KY 40299.