Frank Capuano

Frank Capuano was born on July 16, 1939, in the picturesque town of Lascari, Italy. At the tender age of just 16, he embarked on a life-changing adventure, leaving his native homeland in hopes of creating a better life for himself and his family in the United States. This adventure eventually landed him in Los Angeles, California. He was the beloved son of Rosario and Vincenza Capuano and shared his life with a younger brother, Mario, and an older sister, Rosa, both of whom have passed away. Tragically, a brother named Michael was lost at birth, leaving a profound impact on Frank's heart.

At the age of 24, Frank’s life took a remarkable turn in the small town of Cefalu, Italy where he met the love of his life, Franca Pizzuto, while on vacation. Their connection was so profound that they decided to marry just 11 days after their first meeting, sealing their love on July 11, 1964. Frank and Franca embarked on a remarkable journey of 59 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love. Together, they nurtured a beautiful family, raising five children: Vincenza, Angela, Rosario, Giovanni, and Amanda. Their legacy continued to blossom with the addition of 14 cherished grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. In the hearts of these precious souls, Frank was affectionately known as "Nonno," or grandfather in Italian. This was a title that encapsulated the boundless love he held for each of them. He cherished his role as a grandfather and reveled in the joys of being their Nonno.

Beyond his role as a family man, Frank was a devoutly religious and proud Catholic. He practiced his Catholic faith with unwavering dedication, starting and ending each day in prayer. The simple act of making the sign of the cross and kissing his crucifix and all his saint statues as he entered or left his home spoke volumes about the depth of his faith. While not directly involved in any church ministries, Frank generously supported the church and consistently put the needs of others before his own. His greatest gift was his ability to forgive quickly and love often. As a parent, he strove to teach his children the importance of their relationship with God and would always remind them, “You are nothing without God.”

Frank also had special devotions to Saint Anthony, Saint Joseph, Padre Pio, and the Blessed Mother. His spirituality was a guiding light throughout his life and an inspiration for all who were blessed enough to know him.

Frank's professional journey was marked by 19 years at Van de Kamp Bakery, followed by the establishment of his own business, Capuano Tree Service, which he owned and operated for 35 years. He also ventured into real estate, frequently buying, fixing, and selling homes. His entrepreneurial spirit even led him to open Tutta Pasta Italian Restaurant in Carlsbad, CA as well as a used furniture store, both of which he managed with great pride and dedication. Beyond his business ventures, Frank had an unparalleled love for hosting people and parties at his home. His home was a place of warmth and hospitality, never empty, always filled with friends and family. It was truly a sanctuary of warmth and laughter, where countless cherished memories were created.

Although Pancreatic cancer may have been his final battle, Frank faced it with remarkable strength and tenacity. He took his last breath here on earth on October 20, 2023, nearly three years after his initial diagnosis, surrounded by his lifelong wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some might say this is the way he would have wanted to leave this life here on earth.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Franca; his children, Vincenza, Angela, Rosario, Giovanni and Amanda; grandchildren, Christina, Isabella, Lindsay, William, McKenna, Francesco, Jeffrey, Baylee, Anthony, Giovanni, Mia, Dominic, Marcos and David; step grandchildren, Tyler and Caitlyn; great-grandchildren, Olivia, David, Maverick and Luke; son and daughter in-laws, William, Jeffrey, Tonya, Johnny and Mary, as well as a wide circle of friends and extended family. His legacy lives on through the love he shared, the faith he carried, and the memories that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who were privileged enough to know him.

A vigil and Rosary will be held on Monday, November 6th beginning at 7:30 p.m. at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Yorba Linda, CA. A memorial mass to celebrate Frank's life will also be held at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church on Tuesday, November 7th at 10:00 a.m., immediately followed by the interment at Calvary Cemetery and Mortuary in East Los Angeles, CA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any donations be made to St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church in Sun City, CA to go toward the new building fund in Frank's honor.

In honoring Frank Capuano, we recognize a life well-lived, one that overflowed with love, faith, family, forgiveness, and the joy of shared moments. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be enshrined in our hearts. May he rest easy in God’s loving embrace.