Frank Pampanelli

Frank Pampanelli, 87, formerly of Seneca, SC, passed away at Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca, SC on April 11, 2024. He was born on June 4, 1936, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Fernando and Angelina Pampanelli.

After graduating from Paul Revere Trade School in Rochester, NY, Frank started working at Hickey Freeman, a manufacturer of suits for men and boys, based in Rochester, NY. He was an active member of the Rochester Clothing Union. In 1954, Frank enlisted in the National Guard, where he served as a trucking logistical planner. Frank joined Eastman Kodak Company in 1965, where he held a position as a camera technician. After 25 years, Frank retired from Eastman Kodak Company and enjoyed working part-time for the National School Bus Association, where he transported kids back and forth to school and sporting events.

In 1997, after Leah, his wife retired, they both moved to Seneca, SC, where they built their home on Lake Keowee. Frank found boundless joy in the company of his wife, Leah. You would never find one without the other, truly two individuals who had a high regard of respect and love for one another. Frank worked for several years for Clemson Area Transit and Seneca School as a bus driver. It was the perfect job for Frank, as he loved striking up conversations with the students to share his stories and simply just catch up and offer his advice if solicited. In 2000, Frank and Leah started their own business, Builders Service, which offers cleaning services throughout the building process as well as established homes. Frank and Leah worked this business together for many years until 2015 when Frank decided officially to move into retirement. Later, Leah lessened her work hours and the two started their next adventure. Their partnership was a source of strength, laughter, and shared adventures as highlighted in the fact that they both just loved to jump in the car and head out the door. With no planned destination they always ended up with a remarkable story to tell.

Frank, with Leah by his side, was always ready to go out to restaurants and visit with friends. He was quick to dress, always wearing a “Carnival Cruise” shirt and a pair of Margaritaville shoes. Frank loved to sing. He would often times serenade his bus passengers and his family with Tiny Tim’s, “Tiptoe through the Tulips.” He was never shy to just stand up in a restaurant and belt out this song, while the rest of his family would be choking on embarrassment. It was his gift to entertain, and he was going to do it regardless, as it brought great happiness to him and the individuals he reached. And of course, we cannot forget the great Elvis Presley. Frank loved Elvis Presley! He started collecting Elvis Presley memorabilia when he moved to Seneca, SC, and made us promise to keep it as a reminder of him. One of Leah’s and Frank’s excursions after moving to Seneca, SC, was to visit Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. Frank was able to record a song while in Graceland, “Love Me Tender.” He would play this as often as he could, making sure there was always an audience. He sang quite a bit through his amazing life, his way of making the world a better place to live. We will certainly miss those high notes in “Tiptoe through the Tulips.”


Frank was known for his warm voice and kind spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of his loved ones and for those who knew him.

Frank is survived by his wife, Leah Pampanelli; his son Frank William (Tina) of Central, SC; seven grandchildren, many nieces, and nephews. Children from his first wife, daughter Pamela Brun and son, David Brun, Rochester, NY.

Frank is predeceased by his son, Stephen Pampanelli, Seattle, Washington.

A private ceremony will be held with the immediate family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Cottingham Hospice House, Make a Donation (prismahealth.org) – Hospice of the Foothills, or Save the Turtles; Home - Save the Turtles (saveturtles.org).

Mountainview Funerals and Cremations Seneca Chapel is assisting the Pampanelli family.