Frank Joseph Panepinto Sr.

Frank Joseph Panepinto, Sr. passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2021 at the age of 93. Beloved husband of Cecile Laurie Panepinto and the late Helen Boudreaux Panepinto. Father of Frank Joseph Panepinto, Jr., (Gail), John Alan Panepinto (Diana), and the late Blaine Anthony Panepinto. Step-father of Craig Steven Hawkins (Toni), Wayne Jude Hawkins (Paula), and Christy Hawkins Fontenot (Lawrence). Son of the late Joseph John Panepinto and Brazel Catalinotto Panepinto. Son-in-law of Josephine Marino McKenzie. Brother of Mary Panepinto Zeringue and the late Genevieve Panepinto. Also survived by 10 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. He was born in Gretna, LA., the first of three children. He attended St. Joseph Grammar School in Gretna where he received the American Legion Award for the highest grade average. He was a graduate of Jesuit High School and always kept in close contact with his classmates. Frank was also a graduate of Loyola University with a degree in accounting. A very devout Catholic, he attended mass and communion as often as possible. He was a professional musician and played clarinet and saxophone for many years. He gave his time and talent to many churches even when he had surgery and almost had to stop playing altogether. God had something greater in mind for him to do, as he inspired so many people when he played all the beautiful hymns in so many churches. Frank had a special devotion to St. Joseph, Jesus, and the Blessed Mother. He even went to Medjugoria and climbed Mount Krusaveck. Frank had so much courage. He never felt sorry for himself and you would never think of him as being handicapped in any way, even though he contacted polio when he was eight years old. He always wore a smile and never complained. The most wonderful thing about him was he could never refuse anyone any favor. He would go out of his way to do whatever he could and would find a way to help them, always putting himself last. Frank was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and step-father. From his wife Cecile: we prayed, talked, laughed and cried together. I will miss him so much and my heart will be filled with the wonderful memories and love that he left with me. I look forward to the day that I will be with him again for all eternity. He was a resident and a member of the Italian American Society and the Knights of Columbus, Gretna. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass on Thursday, March 18, 2021 at 11am at Infant Jesus Catholic Church, 700 Maple St., Harvey, LA. Visitation will be held at church from 9am until 11am. Everyone attending must wear masks. Interment, Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, where he will be placed in the family tomb. Family and friends may view and sign the online guest book at www.mothefunerals.com .