Frank A. Nannicola Sr. 1935-2025

He was born May 11, 1935, the son of Phyllis Notarantonio and Armando “Herman” Nannicola.

Frank graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1953 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University in 1959. He served in the Air Force Reserve for five years.

In 1961, Frank partnered with his father to start Nannicola Wholesale Co. in his garage on Bonnie Brae SE in Warren. Two years later, they purchased a building on Youngstown Road, which became the company’s long-term home.

Nannicola Wholesale was among the first discount stores in the region to offer novelties, toys, carnival supplies, party goods, wedding items and fundraising products. In 1970, Frank installed the iconic clown sign in front of the building, which became a well-known landmark in Warren. In the ’80s, his advertisement “Nannicola, Nannicola, Nannicola” became a famous jingle never to be forgotten.

As the business grew, its focus shifted toward distributing and supplying bingo products to charities. In the ’90s, Frank’s three sons joined the company, and together they expanded the business into one of the largest bingo distributors in the country at their Youngstown location. In 2008, Frank closed the party store in Warren.

He began to spend his time between Florida and Ohio with Janet, his wife of 59 years. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by many loved ones who enjoyed honoring his life.

Frank loved visiting with all his family, friends, classmates, employees and customers. He had a big heart and a personality to match. His smile was amazing, his handshake unforgettable and his dedication to family and work was extraordinary.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Imburgia Nannicola; three sons, Armand (Andrea), Charles (Lynn) and Frank II; and five grandchildren, Cassandra, Frank, Mia, Armand Jr. and Romero.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, Domenica (Catignani) Notarantonio; and his sister, Evelyn Nannicola.

The family will have a Mass in Florida to celebrate his life with family and friends.

Local arrangements are entrusted to the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel, Warren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to The Janet and Frank Nannicola Scholarship Fund at Youngstown State University Foundation, 655 Wick Ave., Youngstown, OH 44502. Donations can be made online at ysufoundation.org by clicking “Give Now” and following the prompts.

Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Frank’s family.

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