Obituary of Frank J. Disanza

Frank J. Disanza completed his journey on Earth on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at Saint Clare’s Hospital in Denville. He had shared 86 years of unconditional love, invaluable wisdom, and infectious laughter with family and friends. 

Born and raised in Bronx, NY to the late Frank and Adelaide Disanza, he was one of four children to bless their household. After graduating High School, Frank proudly served our country in the United States Navy. Shortly after his Honorable Discharge, he met the woman who would change his life forever.  Frank and Diana (Scotto) were married on September 11, 1960 in Brooklyn, and moved to Queens, NY, to begin a family of their own, adopting daughter Gina Marie on December 10, 1965.  They moved to Franklin Square, NY in 1969, where they spent many wonderful years with neighbors who became family. Frank had a very successful 33-year career at Nabisco, during which he attended college in the evening, earning an Associate Degree from Adelphi University in Long Island.  He started off his employment with Nabisco in NYC and when the company relocated to NJ, the Disanza family found their forever home in Rockaway Township. Although Frank retired from his Purchasing Manager position in 1984, the skills and friendships that he created while working for Nabisco lasted a lifetime. He looked forward to the Nabisco retiree luncheons, which he has organized and sustained for the last 20 years. He could be found writing daily in his agenda with his green pen, keeping track of all the events’ details. With his best friend and soulmate Diana, Frank explored the world; they visited many places such as England, Italy, Germany, Scotland and more. Hawaii was their most favorite place of all, and a place where they made many unforgettable memories.

Frank was the type of man who created friends everywhere he went. He was kind, compassionate, caring, honest, loyal, and tons of fun, always looking forward to the next party. As an avid bowler, he relished setting up his “bowling banquets." He also made many friends after retirement at Minebrook Golf Club in Hackettstown where his passion for golfing was created and where he achieved a hole-in-one! He also loved tending to his garden and watching his revered football Giants, Knicks, or Mets. 

Above anything else, faith and family were his first priority. As a devout Catholic he was a member of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Parish in Dover for over 40 years where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, altar server, and lector in addition to volunteering anywhere else he could be of assistance to the parish. When it came to his grandsons, they were precious and priceless, his time with them was irreplaceable. He was the proudest Pop and their biggest cheerleader no matter what sport they played: baseball, soccer, track, or rugby.  When they both chose to attend St. Bonaventure University, he became a proud Bona Grandparent, and cheered wildly for the St. Bonaventure Bonnies basketball team. Frank could often be found in his Bonnies attire no matter the occasion.  

Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we take comfort in knowing we have the greatest Guardian Angel shining down from above, watching out for all of us. 

He leaves only joyful memories to his cherished wife of 60 years, Diana; his treasured daughter and son-in-law, Gina and Sergio Carro; his adored grandsons, Alexander and Tyler Carro; his caring siblings, Ronald (the late Frances) Disanza and Agnes Disanza, as well as Margaret (the late Albert) Quaranta, who he joins in heaven. He is remembered fondly by his 12 nieces and nephews and their children; as well as many other extended family and dear friends. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 7th at 10 am Sacred Heart Parish, 4 Richards Ave, Dover, NJ 07801. Walkthrough Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 6th from 2 - 5 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider making a donation in memory of Frank to Cancer Support Community Central NJ, 3 Crossroads Drive, Bedminster, NJ 07921. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Frank here to continue to celebrate the incredible life he endowed to us.

COVID Alert:  We kindly ask you to follow all specific guidelines on social distancing - the family is humbled and grateful that you are willing to come and pay your respects even in the middle of a pandemic. In order to keep everyone safe and still celebrate Frank's life, please understand that masks (covering both nose and mouth) must be worn at all times inside the building; all social distancing guidelines must be followed at all times. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in this necessary matter.