Obituary of Frank Pedulla

Frank Pedulla, Jr., passed away peacefully and surrounded by his family on February 25, 2022, at the age of 93. Frank was born in Malaga, New Jersey in 1928 to the late Francesco and Maria (Monteleone) Pedulla. He grew up attending Franklin Township schools and graduated from Clayton High School in 1947. Upon graduation, Frank enlisted in the Navy and proudly served during the Korean War through 1951. After being honorably discharged, he returned home and two years later met his beloved Mary (Croce) Pedulla who would become his wife in 1954. Frank and Mary settled in Malaga and personified the meaning of devotion and commitment to all who met them over the course of these past 67 years. In 1952, along with his brother Dominic, Frank founded Asphalt Paving Corporation. Over the years through sacrifice and determination, the company grew into a successful local business and, as was always his wish, a legacy for his cherished nephew, John Gravenor. As a life-long resident of Malaga, Frank felt a deep sense of responsibility to give back to the community which gave him so much so he became a member of many local organizations: the Elks, VFW, the Knights of Columbus, and the Malaga Volunteer Fire Company to name a few. Frank was elected to the Franklin Township Committee in 1955 and in his second year he became the youngest Mayor of Franklin Township and the state of New Jersey holding that title from 1956 to 1961. He humbly served his community throughout his time in office and for many decades after. Over the years, Frank enjoyed a variety of pastimes most notably fishing on his boat the Skipjack, traveling with Mary, and spending time at the Borgata in Atlantic City. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have known Frank, recognize that he was a humble, honorable, extraordinary man whose generosity and kindness touched innumerable people. He was a mentor, a father, a loyal friend, and a role model. He is survived by his wife, Mary (Croce) Pedulla; his nephew John (Piera) Gravenor; niece Renee DeAngelis, and many great-nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother Dominic Pedulla and his sister Frances Gravenor. A church visitation will be held on Thursday, March 3, 2022, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM followed by a funeral mass at 11:30 AM from Our Lady Of The Blessed Sacrament - Church Of St. Michael, 504 West Avenue, Minotola. Interment will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery, Newfield. Everyone is asked to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status. ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360 To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com