Francesco "Uncle Frank" Citrigno

Francesco Citrigno ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Louis C. Galzerano Funeral Home, Inc. - Philadelphia on Mar. 9, 2026.Francesco "Frank" Citrigno, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 6, 2026. Known to many simply as "Uncle Frank," he was truly an icon in his community. Wherever he went, Frank seemed to know someone - and if he didn't, he quickly made a friend.Born and raised in Mangone, Italy, Frank was one of five siblings: Erminia Segreto, Elena Fuoco, Maria Naccarato, and Michele Citrigno; all of whom predeceased him. He is survived by many nieces and nephews and countless friends and family.At the age of 19, he immigrated to the United States with only a few dollars in his pocket and without speaking any English. Like so many immigrants of his generation, he came with determination, resilience, and the dream of building a better life.Frank first settled in the Frankford section of Philadelphia, where he worked his first job at Evans Factory. It was there that he began laying the foundation for the life he would build in America.He later started a family with his wife, Gerri before eventually moving to Far Northeast Philadelphia, where they raised their children and built a lifetime of memories together.Frank was perhaps best known for owning Uncle Frank's Pizza at Caster and Levick, which he proudly operated for 25 years. The pizzeria became a neighborhood staple where customers quickly turned into lifelong friends. Competition was never a concern for Uncle Frank - his personality, generosity, and passion for what he did kept people coming back year after year.Francesco had many talents and wore many hats throughout his life. A natural entrepreneur and hardworking tradesman, he developed numerous skills and proudly considered himself both a "plumber and an electrician." Even after retiring from the pizzeria, Frank couldn't sit still. With only a 5th grade education but an unstoppable drive to learn, he even went to school to train to open a pool service company. He also helped friends with their pizza shops and started a handyman service, always eager to stay busy and lend a hand.Frank was a man with a heart of gold - something anyone who knew him would quickly tell you. He was generous, loyal, hardworking, and deeply devoted to his family.In his later years, Frank was lovingly cared for by his granddaughter, Stephanie, who remained faithfully by his side - a reflection of the deep love and bond they shared.He is survived by his wife, Gerri Citrigno; his daughter Deborah Rose (Frank); and his son Frank Citrigno (Trisha).He was the proud grandfather of Stephanie, the oldest grandchild, followed by Cesco and Juliette, all of whom he loved dearly.Frank's life was a true example of the American dream - an immigrant who came with nothing but built a life filled with family, friendship, and community.Frank was a phenomenal father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, cousin, and friend, and his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched.He will be remembered for his stories, his humor, his work ethic, and the friendships he built wherever he went. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories of "Uncle Frank" will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community he loved so much.Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Friday, March 13th from 10 to 11am at the Maternity BVM Church, 9220 Old Bustleton Avenue, Phila PA 19115. His Funeral Mass will follow at 11am. Interment will be private.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.