Francesco Campisano

Francesco Campisano, 90, a man of quiet strength, deep generosity, and enduring work ethic, passed away Tuesday June 24, 2025,  surrounded by family and love.

 He was born in Filadelfia, Calabria, Italy, the son of the late Vito and Giovanna Bilotta Campisano.

Before immigrating to the United States, Francesco proudly served in the Italian military, an experience that shaped his lifelong values of discipline, service, and resilience. In the mid-1950s, he journeyed to northeastern Pennsylvania to reunite with his family and begin a new chapter, eventually making his home in Pittston and later in Swoyersville.

Upon arriving in America, Francesco worked at the Valley Moccasin Shoe Factory and the Gus Genetti Hotel. He owned and operated Frank’s Café in Wilkes-Barre, a neighborhood bar that served as his first business venture in the United States. After several years, he transitioned to construction work and became a proud member of Local 215 of the Laborers' International Union of North America. A skilled mason and builder, he left an indelible mark on the Wyoming Valley, not just in the homes and buildings he helped construct, but in the community, he helped strengthen through his dedication and craftsmanship.

Frank, as he was affectionately known, was a man of purpose and humility. He believed in honest work, showed up for others, and embodied the quiet dignity of a life well lived. He could fix anything, grow anything, and lift the spirits of anyone lucky enough to cross his path. His beloved farm on Susquehanna Avenue in Exeter became a gathering place, not just for fresh vegetables at his stand, but for friendship, laughter, and the occasional shot of homemade wine. 

Above all, Frank was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, a steady presence whose legacy lives on in the lives he shaped and the values he passed down. 

Francesco was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Josephine Donato Campisano (1987), and later by Bernadine Klem (2016). He was also predeceased by his brothers, Bruno and Pietro Campisano, and sisters, Filomena Campisano and Filomena Aiello.

He is survived by his daughters, Francesca Burke and husband Tom, and Lucia Campisano and fiancé Chris Eco; step-children, Cecile Hyder and husband Sam. Donna Kolojejchick, Michelle Klem, Theodore Klem Jr.; grandchildren Casimir Joseph and Maria; and great-grandchildren Vaughn, Lucia, Laura, Casimiro Francesco, and Giorgio. He is also survived by his sisters, Vittoria Rondinelli and her husband Bruno, and Maryann Fannick and her husband Demetrius, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who brought him tremendous pride and joy and his grand pups; Clemenza, Cannoli, and Luca.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Compassionate Home Care and Associated Home Care, as well as to Dr. Torbik and her dedicated staff, Dr. Pernikoff, and the many doctors and nurses who cared for him over the years.

A celebration of Francesco’s life will begin with a visitation on Sunday June 29, 2025 from 4-6PM at Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC 251 William Street, Pittston.

A Mass of Christian Burial Will be celebrated Monday June 30, 2025 at 9:30AM in St. Joseph Marello Parish 237 William Street, Pittston. Those wishing to attend are asked to go directly to the church. Private interment will be held in Denison Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Meals on Wheels of Greater Pittston. 

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