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Frank Julius Ciocci

Jan. 9, 1931-March 19, 2011

Beloved husband of Philomena, devoted father to Barbara, Frank, Christopher and Cheryl, and doting grandfather to Jocelyn and Dain, died after a brief illness surrounded by friends and family.

Frank acquired his work ethic and love of family as the oldest son of parents Flaminio and Louisa Ciocci – Italian immigrants who settled in Hermanie, Pa. Frank was accomplished as both a scholar and athlete as he graduated valedictorian from Sewickley Township High School in 1949 and excelled at sports. Frank served his country as an Army corporal in Italy where in addition to his military duties, he enjoyed playing basketball on the traveling team. He returned a decorated solider with an honorable discharge to study history at Washington & Jefferson College where he graduated cum laude and was awarded The Henry Willson Temple Prize in history and The Birch Scholarship upon his graduation in 1957. Frank furthered his scholastic career ultimately earning a masters in education at Duquesne University.

Perhaps most significant in his life was his courtship of and marriage to Philomena creating a partnership which was to last for 52 years. A key value in the lives of Frank and Philomena was their dedication to the education of themselves, their children and the teaching and coaching of thousands of students who passed through Frank’s classes at Peters Township High School.

After Frank’s retirement, he and Philomena moved to their new life in Sonoma where they flourished – making countless friends, tennis partners and fellow wine-lovers. Frank showed great tolerance and acceptance as his health began to decline. He was a rock of strength and unselfishness who will forever be missed. His family wishes to thank the many medical and emergency professionals who helped him through his final journey.

A memorial Mass will be held at St. Leo’s Church in Sonoma on Wednesday, March 30, at 2 p.m.

Donations to the American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer Association, or the National Cancer Society are requested in lieu of flowers.