Frank Joseph Paterra, 77, of Charleroi, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2024, with his family by his side. Born in Charleroi on March 28, 1946, Frank was the son of the late Frank F. and Virginia Cavanaugh Paterra. In recent years, Frank was passionate about politics, frequent trips to the YMCA pool, daily chats with friends and his nightly Bible studies. Yet perhaps his most cherished role was that of a loving father and grandfather. He will be missed by many. Frank, an avid and colorful storyteller, loved recounting tales of his past. Following high school, he honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Conflict. Frank proudly devoted his life to his community, serving as mayor of Charleroi from 2006 to 2010, intermittently as councilman between 2016 and 2023 and as president of Charleroi Council from 2022-23. Frank’s dedication to service spans back several decades. He served as commander and chaplain for American Legion Post 22 in Charleroi for many years. He was elected to the Charleroi School Board in 1973, was the Republican nominee for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982 and was elected to North Charleroi Council in 1983. Frank was raised Catholic and later became a member of Journey by Grace Free Methodist Church, which he attended for more than 40 years. He sang with the church choir and would often perform featured solos for the entire congregation to enjoy. In the 1970s, Frank played the organ and sang with the popular group The Eldorados at a happening local night spot — Charleroi Sons of Italy. Frank loved to laugh and be in the presence of family. He had a strong spirit and a kind heart. Over the years he held a variety of interests and enjoyed attending model train exhibits with his brother John, attending air shows with his children and growing his collection of model trains and airplanes. A longtime member of the Mon Valley YMCA, Frank enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly with his beloved dogs, Caleb, Max, Mya and Ben. Frank’s greatest passion in life was championing his three children in all their endeavors. Surviving to cherish Frank’s memory are his son, Matthew Paterra; daughter, Megan (Oscar) Shutt; and daughter, Lauren (Bill) Lamb; his grandchildren, Hayden and Farrah Lamb, along with his brother, Tom Paterra; nephews, Michael, Tim, Patrick and Joe Kolodychak and Kevin and Tim Paterra; and numerous other nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his brother, John Paterra; and his sister, Patty Kolodychak. Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Journey by Grace Free Methodist Church, 4803 PA-51, Belle Vernon, PA 15012. A funeral service will be held beginning at 11 a.m. Friday, March 22, 2024, at Journey by Grace Free Methodist Church. Military honors will follow services. Private interment will occur at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to HOGAN-MELENYZER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES INC., 226 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi, PA 15022. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank’s memory to the American Legion Post 22 Firing Squad, 234 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi, PA 15022. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hogan-melenyzer.com.
