Francis Scarpino

February 10, 1932 - January 6, 2024

Passed away peacefully on January 6, 2024, at the age of 91.

Frank was born in San Francisco to his Italian American parents, Giuseppe and Josephine Scarpino. He grew up in Noe Valley, attending St. Paul’s Grammar School and St. Ignatius High School.

He met the love of his life, Eleanor (Nan) Loughran, in the fourth grade. They started seriously dating in high school and married in 1955, shortly after Frank returned from a year’s service with the army in Korea. In 1960, they moved to Daly City where they raised their children and made many lifelong friendships. In 1987, they moved to sunny Redwood City.

Frank worked as a barber for 43 years in SF’s Mission District. First at Merit Barber Shop on 21st Street, where he cut hair alongside his father, and then, later, he manned the second chair at Willie’s Barber Shop on 22nd Street until he retired in 1997.

His Catholic faith was a deeply important part of his life. He was a dedicated volunteer at every parish he lived in – St. Pauls, Holy Angels, and St. Pius. When his children were in grammar school, Frank was a cub scout leader, a president of the men’s club, a lector at mass, and a cook for pancake breakfast fundraisers among other things. After he retired, he volunteered at the Main Library in Redwood City, made sandwiches with Nan for the homeless, and delivered the Eucharist weekly to homebound parishioners.

He was an avid golfer, devoted SF Giants fan and a lifelong 49er fan – spending many Sundays at Candlestick Park tailgating and cheering on the red and gold with friends and family. He had a deep appreciation for music and all forms of art. He became a fine painter and expressed his love for the ocean in his beautiful seascapes.

Frank and Nan traveled extensively across the country, throughout Europe, and enjoyed many cruises with family and friends. Frank loved few things more than entertaining. Telling stories, laughing, sharing drinks and a meal were top of his list. It was a treat for all because he was a terrific cook.

Frank was a loving and supportive husband, father, grandfather, and friend you could always count on. He was always upbeat with a great sense of humor. He was a very sociable guy who was truly interested in others and loved meeting new people. He will be dearly missed.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Nan, and his son, Daniel, who died shortly after birth. He is survived by his children, Tom (Susan), Joan (Nick), Rob (Maria), Sharon (Bob); his grandchildren, Catherine (Erich), Peter (Marah), Giuseppe (Kiara), Jack, Danny (Deirdre), Gina, Dominic, and Kelly; his great-grandchildren Levi, Callie Rose and Joelle; and his brother, Gene Scarpino.

A special thank you to Eva for giving him great care and quality of life this past year.

A celebration of life and burial ceremony will be private.

Donations may be made in Frank’s honor to your favorite charity.