Frank “Pap” Cinefra
Born May 4, 1953, in Pittsburgh, beloved father and grandfather Frank “Pap” Cinefra passed away Friday, November 10, 2023, at his home in Penn Hills.
Frank is survived by his daughter Lindsey (Brian) Haberl and grandchildren Rowan and Aria, sons Michael (Shiloh Gauthier) and Christopher (Chelsea Koontz) Cinefra, and many extended family members and friends. Frank is predeceased by his wife, Deborah Stockey Cinefra, his brother, Gary Cinefra, and his sister, Sandra Nicassio.
Frank was a lifelong resident of Verona and graduate of Penn Hills High School, class of 1971, and the University of Pittsburgh, class of 1976. On May 2, 1975, Frank married his sweetie, Debbie, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Verona.
Frank, taught by his father, started working for John Ruscella at the East Liberty furniture and upholstery studio in 1973. As Frank honed his skills under John's mentorship, he excelled in all aspects of the craft, from constructing frames to fabric cutting and spring tying. Eventually, Frank took charge of production, quality assurance, and a team of 6 employees at the shop. By the mid-80's, Frank had become the sole owner of Ruscella's Fine Upholstery. In 2018, Frank "semi-retired" from the business and his sons now operate Ruscella's in Verona, preserving the family name.
Frank, a skilled handyman and avid fan of the Steelers and Pirates, was known for his deep laugh and gentle demeanor. In addition, Frank’s meatloaf couldn’t be beat. But don’t ask for the recipe. Frank never followed one. He measured with his heart.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lupus Foundation of America, 2121 K Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20037, Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090, or Parkinson’s Foundation, 100 South Commons Suite 102, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.
Friends received at William F. Gross Funeral Home 11735 Frankstown Rd. (at Rodi Rd.), Penn Hills on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 9 a.m. until the time of the Blessing Service at 10 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, 8th Street, Verona, PA 15147.