Frank J. Scarpino, also known as Fabulous Frank, 69, of Orchard Park, N.Y. and formerly of Warren, PA., slept peacefully from this life to his eternal home, Monday, March 6, 2023. Frank was born January 31, 1954, in Jamestown, New York. He was the son of Carl and Josephine Rosella Scarpino.
He was a 1972 graduate of Jamestown High School and a graduate of The Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Frank was a Warren resident for over 20 years, and then lived in Orchard Park, N.Y. for over 20 years. Over the years, he was owner and operator of the former Classy Closet specialty clothing store, The Willows Bed & Breakfast, Extra Extras Consignment Shop and Gifted Images all operated in Warren, PA., He also owned and rented out numerous costumes for Halloween and special events. He also was formerly employed as a furniture salesman with Ashley Home Store in Orchard Park, N.Y.
Frank was active in local theatres where he created overall costume designs. He was an active member and friend of the Imperial Court of Buffalo where he enjoyed attending their Imperial Masquerade ICP Ball.
Frank can be remembered by many friends whom he loved to talk and spend time with. He was a fashion icon, and once told a friend, “Life is too short not to wear the expensive jewelry and vintage glasses.” He was a man full of love and life. He truly made everything both special and beautiful. Frank lit up every room he walked into to.
He is survived by his loving daughter whom he dearly loved and spoke of often, Erin Scarpino, son-in-law, Francisco Almonte, and granddaughter, Valentina Almonte, of Secaucus, N.J., a brother, 3 sisters, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his longtime partner and best friend, David Simmons, who died March 3, 2022.
A celebration of Frank’s life will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA., with the Rev. Dr. Dale Haight, leading the celebration. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Boe and I were so deeply saddened to hear the news of Franks passing. He was truly a colorful character, full of life and love, and always brought a smile to one’s face. we shared a lot of laughter and good times together, and he will long be remembered! We are so grateful that we got to know him and will dearly miss him.
Sending love and support to Erin along with all who loved and celebrated with and for Frank!!
He dressed me at Players as our designer and for so many parties!! Frank was and is one of a kind!!
Frank was the nicest person. I worked with him in the children’s group home in Watren county. The kids loved him. Always helping and doing whatever he could. Sadly missed.
Fabulous, where do I even begin. From my earliest days here in Buffalo and not knowing many people I ALWAYS knew I had a friend when I ran into you. I’d open a door or walk past a patio and hear your laugh and just knew my night would be better. Your love and light are so deeply missed but I know you’d say to oh honey… life’s too short to be sad. You’d remind me of my own light and laughter and encourage me to get out in the world and shine. I have a word of the day app that makes me smile every day. Thank you for that. Thank you for you. Thank you Fabulous.
Frank was just that, Fabulous. With a hug and a big kiss on the cheek, Frank was always there to lend sage advice and kind support when needed or if he could tell you were down. A warm and familiar person in our community, he had a great impact on people. I can see him now, swooping his colorful scarf over his shoulder while letting out a boisterous laugh. Rest in peace Fab Frank. ❤️
God bless you frank you were the best person I had for a group home staff you will be miss buy me I still can’t get over your gone God bless you
Very sorry to hear this may he rest in Peace! Such an amazing person
My deepest Condolences to the family. Frank was a kind fun loving man…spent time with him and the others at Classy Closet…so many fun ..fun times. You’ll be greatly missed Frank