Frank Critelli

Francis "Frank" Joseph Critelli passed away peacefully at his home in Manahawkin, NJ, at the age of 97. Born in Suffern, NY, and raised in Haverstraw, he attended St. Peter’s Catholic School and graduated from Haverstraw High School. He was the son of Catherine and Dominic (Mike) Critelli, well-known Haverstraw residents. 

At just 17, Frank answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Navy during World War II. A proud member of the Greatest Generation and one of the last surviving WWII veterans, he served aboard the USS Houston Cruiser. He missed his high school graduation while away at war—but his Aunt stepped in and gladly accepted his diploma on his behalf. Upon returning home, he pursued a business degree at a college in Brooklyn. 

Frank built a successful career in sales, beginning shortly after college. He married Ann Pearl Reece, and together they had three children —Catherine, Thomas, and Stephen. The family moved to Massachusetts and then Pittsburgh, PA, before returning to Rockland County, NY. Though their marriage ended in divorce, Frank’s life took a new and joyful turn when he met Doris at a “Parents Without Partners” gathering. They fell in love, and in 1978, they married, blending their families with Doris’s daughters, Renee and Holly. 

Frank and Doris built a beautiful life together, settling in River Vale, NJ, where they enjoyed a vibrant social life. They loved meeting their friends for dinner and enjoyed their special date nights out to dinner and dancing. He shared a deep bond with his brothers, Bernie and Michael, and treasured family celebrations. He cared deeply for his children and grandchildren’s well-being and offered support throughout their lives. Frank was a devoted and generous family man and was always there for his loved ones.

His professional career flourished at Faber-Castell, a leading office supply company, where he became a top salesman. His success earned him and Doris incredible incentive trips to Hawaii and the Virgin Islands. One year, his outstanding sales performance won them a trip to Sweden. Frank also had an entrepreneurial spirit, inventing Writer Aid, a specialized pencil designed to help children learn to write, which provided him with continued success through royalties. 

Later in life, Frank and Doris moved to Manahawkin, NJ, where they found happiness near the shore. A perfect day for Frank was one spent at the beach with a good book, a homemade lunch, and Doris by his side. As members of St. Mary’s Parish in Barnegat, their faith remained an important part of their lives. For many years, they became snowbirds and spent winters in Venice, Florida, Frank was a passionate reader and devoured books by authors such as John Grisham, Stephen King, and James Patterson. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Doris, his sons Thomas Critelli, and Stephen (Linda) Critelli, and his stepdaughters Renee (Doug) Nelson and Holly (Bob) Piscatelli. He was predeceased by his brothers and his daughter, Catherine, whom he now joins in eternal rest. He was a proud grandfather to Tom's children; Jessica and daughter Abigail, Megan (Jeremy) Brown and son Jason, and Sean; Stephen and Linda’s son, Stephen Jr; Renee and Doug’s children, Chad (Karen) and son Andrew, Holly (Gert) Arnold and daughter Brooke, Hannah, Samuel, Caleb, Joshua, and Charity; and Holly and Bob’s son, Moses. In all, Frank leaves behind 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will carry on his legacy with love and cherished memories. 

Frank lived a long, full life filled with love and devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.           

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 9 AM to 10:15 AM at TJ McGowan Sons Funeral Home in Haverstraw, New York. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30am at St. Peters Church in Haverstraw, followed by interment at St. Peters Cemetery, Haverstraw, New York.