Frank J. Barbera, age 98, passed away Peacefully on April 22, 2020, at the Veterans Memorial Hospital in Wilkes-Barre. He was born in Pittston, to the late Emilio & Serafina (Tabone) Barbera, on September 21, 1921. He was a 1939 graduate of Pittston High School, after which he attended Penn State University attaining a BA in business.
Mr. Barbera was a Veteran of World War II, after college, he was inducted into the United States Army, attaining the rank of staff Sergeant, in the 4th infantry division as a fire direction chief & infantryman. Mr. Barbera’s unit landed on Utah beach on D-Day after which his unit took part in the capture of Cherbourg and the liberation of Paris, he and his unit fought in the battle Hurtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge. For his service he received 5 bronze service stars, a good conduct medal, and a victory medal. Mr. Barbera was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 1945. He was very proud to have served his country as part of the greatest generation ever.
Upon returning home he became a very successful businessman as co-owner of Tabone & Barbera Construction Company,
and developed Pittston Lumber Company
into one of the most successful lumber companies on the East Coast.
Mr. Barbera served this community proudly as past president of the Pittston Rotary Club, and the President of Pittston Chamber of Commerce, he was a member of the VFW, Fox Hill Country Club and a lifetime member of the Penn State Alumni Association.
Upon retirement in 1988, he enjoyed spending time with his loving wife Ann, going on cruises and spending time at the jersey shore. Mr. Barbera enjoyed spending time with his family, along with his passion for Penn State football and long term friendship with Joseph Paterno.
He was preceded in death by his wife Ann in 1999, and infant daughters Marie Louise & Kathleen Marie Barbera.
Mr. Barbera is survived by his son Daniel F. Barbera West Pittston, his daughter Judi Armitage and her husband Jerry, Jenkins Twp, his granddaughter Jannine Marie Barbera, Pittston, his grandson Frank Barbera II, and wife Lindsay, Pittston, grandson Brendon Armitage Jenkins Twp. and great granddaughter Parker Marie Barbera. He is also survived by his half-brother, Bruce Barbera and family, Philadelphia PA.
Private services, with interment in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, will be held at the convenience of the family.Arrangements are entrusted to Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC, 251 William Street, Pittston.