Frank A. DeLuca Sr., passed away peacefully on April 13, 2017 in Denver, Colorado at the age of 98.
He was born in Delagua, Colorado the son of Louisa (Nucci) and Giuseppe DeLuca.
He attended Trinidad High School graduating in 1937.
Frank proudly served his country during WW II in the United States Army Air Corp from August 1940, receiving an Honorable Discharge in October of 1945 as Air Operations Specialist as Master Sargent.
Frank served in the Southwest Pacific during WWII in the 475th Fighter Group-5th Air Force in Australia, New Guinea, East Indies, the Philippine Islands and Ie Shima.
He received the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Five Battle Stars, American Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Liberation Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation with Oak Leaf Cluster.
He was a dedicated member of VFW and was instrumental in the dedication of the WWI Memorial at the Trinidad Welcome Center.
One of the highlights of his life was visiting the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C. with his son and family.
On July 15, 1950, Frank was united in marriage to Betty Louise Mauro, a union that lasted 65 years until her passing.
He was employed for Safeway Stores until his retirement after 25 years of service.
Frank was a man of faith. He was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Parish where he assisted at Sunday Mass at the Trinidad State Nursing home for 40 years.
He loved baseball and was an avid New York Yankees Fan, win or lose.
His family and friends were very important to him.
A devoted family man, Frank was a caring Husband, Father and a very caring and loving Grandfather to Sarah, traveling to China with his son and daughter in law, to welcome her into the family.
Preceding him in death are parents, Louisa and Giuseppe DeLuca, beloved wife Betty L. DeLuca, sisters Rose Diele, Mary DeLuca, Lucy Montera, Angie Natali, brothers Pete, Charles, John and Joe DeLuca and other relatives.
Left to cherish his memory is son Frank A. (Deborah) DeLuca Jr. and granddaughter Sarah DeLuca, niece, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be Tuesday, from 2PM-6PM at the Comi Chapel.
Rosary will be recited Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at 7PM at the Comi Chapel.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 10Am at Holy Trinity Church.
Entombment will follow at the Trinidad Catholic Cemetery with graveside services conducted by the Ft. Carson Honor Guard.
Honorary Pallbearers are Pete Deluca and Joe DiGarbo.
Active pallbearers are Gene Verrette, Jack Christos, Frank Montera, Peter Deluca, Frank Armijo and Sam Regusa Jr.
Persons wishing to do so may make contributions to Holy Trinity Restoration Fund, 235 N. Convent St., Trinidad, Colorado 81082.
Arrangements made under the direction of the Comi Funeral Home.
