Frank Joseph Paterra

Frank Joseph Paterra, 77, of Charleroi, passed away peacefully on March 16th, 2024, with his family by his side. Born in Charleroi on March 28th, 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 Y 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 to 23. 

Frank's dedication to service spans back several decades. He served as Commander and Chaplain for the Charleroi American Legion Post 22 for many years. He also had been elected to the Charleroi School Board in 1973, was the Republican nominee for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982, and had been elected to the North Charleroi Council in 1983.

Frank was raised Catholic, and later became a member of the 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 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 airshows 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; 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, Kevin and Tim Paterra and numerous other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Frank is preceded in death by his brother John Paterra and his sister Patty Kolodychak.

Friends and family will be received from 2:00 to 4:00p.m and 6:00 to 8:00pm on Thursday, March 21st, 2024, at Journey by Grace Free Methodist Church, 4803 PA-51, Belle Vernon, PA 15012. A Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, beginning at 11:00am 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 the HOGAN-MELENYZER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES INC., 226 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi, PA 15022 Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hogan-melenyzer.com.

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

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