Frank Victor Sylvester

Frank Victor Sylvester, Sr., 73, of Penn Boulevard, New Castle, pass away peacefully after a brief illness with his loving family at his side, Tuesday evening, April 14, 2015 at Jameson Memorial Hospital in New Castle. He was born April 5, 1942 in New Castle, the son of the late Augustine V. Sylvester and Elizabeth (DeGidio) Sylvester. His mother survives in New Castle. A 1960 graduate of Union High School, Frank attended Youngstown University where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and Art in 1967; where he exhibited much of his art work in one-man art shows in the Butler Art Institute and the Lawrence County Hoyt Center and was honored with numerous awards. In 1970, he returned to college and attended Slippery Rock State College where he received a Masters’ Degree in special education: specializing in the area of social and emotional support of students. In 1983, he continued his education at Westminster College and received his certification in Secondary School Administration. His career in education spanned more than 36 years, where he worked as an art teacher, resource counselor and ultimately an administrator at Frew Mill School.
During his career, he worked with a colleague counseling youth groups on Art Therapy and how it used in a positive manner and continued counseling youth throughout his career. After his retirement, Frank pursued his love of working with antique furniture and woodworking. He served on the board of the New Castle Transit Authority for several years and was also an active member of many organizations which improved the Greater New Castle Community.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Janet R. (Tropea) Sylvester, one son, Frank V. Sylvester, Jr. of New Castle, one daughter, Valerie A. Perelman of Zelienople, PA, two sisters, Linda O'Neill and her husband Robert of Boardman, OH, and Betty Ann Sylvester of New Castle, and two grandchildren, Anthony Sylvester and John Augustine Perelman.

Visitation will be held at the William F. & Roger M. DeCarbo Funeral Home, 926 Cunningham Avenue on Friday, April 17, 2015 from 5 PM to 8 PM.

Blessing services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2015 at 10:30 A.M. at the William F. DeCarbo Memorial Chapel. Father James Downs of Christ the King Parish will be officiating. Burial will be in the St. Vitus Cemetery.