Obituary of Frank Chiappetta

It is with great sadness that we write of the sudden passing of Francesco (Frank) Chiappetta, on Monday January 30, 2023. Frank was born on February 15, 1933 in the small town of San Fili, Italy, but called Rye his home for over 54 years.  Frank was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Frank was devoted to his wife Raffaela, who recently passed away on November 6, 2022. “Fra and Ra” were married on December 1, 1956. Their love story began nearly 80 years ago, when they met in elementary school after World War II, and since then they never left each other's side. Together, Frank and Raffaela had seven children – five boys and two girls. And from those children came 14 grandchildren, ensuring Frank’s legacy will live on for many generations. 

Frank was a talented carpenter and builder. He began his career as a cabinet maker alongside his father shortly after he emigrated to the United States at the age of 17. Frank eventually turned his early woodworking skills into a successful carpentry and contracting business – Frank Chiappetta & Sons, Inc.– which thrived for more than 50 years in the city of Rye. Frank skillfully worked on the cupola of the clock tower, atop City Hall in Rye.  Frank also worked on many of the overpasses in Westchester County, countless houses, and numerous businesses around Rye. Many landmarks feature his handy work – including Resurrection Church. Some of Frank’s customers loved his professionalism and craftsmanship so much, they would often call him with the simplest of jobs, just to ensure they kept in contact.

Over and above his professional pursuits, Frank was a devoted family man that adored his children and grandchildren. Frank kept many mementos from every occasion, whether it be a playbill from an elementary school play, report card, softball game, or wedding. His filing cabinet is full of cherished memories. Frank also loved watching soccer - Juventus was his favorite team, just like his father. He enjoyed playing cards with his kids and their spouses, which was a Friday night ritual. He was also a longtime, founding member of the San Fili Fraternity Club, and he loved spending time with his friends in Naples, Florida, though sadly that wasn’t possible these past few years.

Frank is survived by his loving family; sons: Frank Chiappetta of Rye, NY, Mario (Lisa) Chiappetta of Mamaroneck, NY, Marco (Adrienne) Chiappetta of Norwalk, CT; daughters: Maria (Vincent) O’Brien of Mount Pleasant, NY, Serina Pecora (Joe) of Rye, NY; daughter in-law: Nanette Chiappetta; grandsons: Stephen O’Brien, Nicholas Chiappetta, Danny Chiappetta, Joey, Robert, Christopher, and Michael Pecora; granddaughters: Emma (Zeb) and Nina Chiappetta, Courtney and Kayla O’Brien, and Isabella and Sophia Chiappetta; brother: Anthony Chiappetta of Florida, sister: Sylvana Lato of Virginia, brother-in-law: Pietro Parrinello of Selden, NY, and several nieces and nephews

Frank is predeceased by his beloved wife Raffaela, his sons John Chiappetta of North Salem, NY; Danny Chiappetta of Rye, NY; grandson John Chiappetta Jr. of North Salem, NY, and parents Francesco and Maria Chiappetta of Corona, NY and sister Gina Mazzuca. 

The family will receive friends, family and loved ones at Graham Funeral Home on Wednesday February 1, 2023, from 5:00-8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at the Church of the Resurrection on Thursday February 2, 2023 at 10:00 AM. The Mass will be livestreamed for those that cannot attend in person. To view the link, click here. Mausoleum entombment to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Rye Brook, NY.