Frank Joseph Sapienza, professional chef
Frank Joseph “Big Frank” Sapienza, 59, of Seaford, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital following sudden heart complications.
Frank was born in Queens, N.Y., Dec. 5, 1954, son of Rose (LoMonaco) Sapienza, of Drakes Branch, Va., and the late Joseph Frank Sapienza.
Frank was a professionally trained chef with strong Italian influences that he learned from his family. His culinary talents were displayed for 20 years at the Villa Rosa and Villa Paradiso restaurants. Frank was a union longshoreman in New York City for seven years. He tended to his rental properties for 15 years. Frank's final passion was enjoyed with his companion each weekend at the Laurel Flea Market, popping homemade kettle corn where his grandchildren would watch him make their favorite snack.
Frank was a Mopar enthusiast and enjoyed drag racing his Dodge Chargers. He was a decorated high school wrestler and Lionel train collector. He was a well-rounded handyman and enjoyed his construction projects and renovations.
“Big Frank” was well known for his unusual attributes, humor and for his big hug and slap on the back signature hug.
In addition to his father, Frank is preceded in death by a son, Frank Joseph Sapienza Jr., in 2011.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his companion, Carolyn Dowling; three children, Malissa Emerick and husband Shawn, Joseph Sapienza and wife Jennifer, all of Georgetown, and Jessica Walker and husband Sam of Ellendale; and their mother, Renee Sapienza of Georgetown; seven grandchildren, Shaila Walker, Samuel Walker, Juliana Thomas, Braiden Emerick, Annabella Sapienza, Brea Emerick and Sophia Walker; three sisters, Debbie Piazza and husband Mike of Drakes Branch, Lisa Bevilacqua and husband John of Slingerland, N.Y., and Roxanne Sapienza of New York; uncle, Vincent Sapienza of Long Neck; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
A memorial service was held privately.
Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market St., Georgetown, DE 19947, where in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to defray expenses.
