Francis "Barney" T. Comparetta

Francis T. "Barney" Comparetta, son of Bernard and Anna Tielli Comparetta, died Wednesday afternoon from complications of Covid-19 at age 80. Barney was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Barbara in 2008, his youngest son David in 2019 and his special friend Dorothy Derbin in April of this year.

Barney is survived by his best friend and son, Michael and his wife Dawn, brother-in-law, Terra Shimkus, grandchildren, Cullen, Candace, Emily and Brian, numerous cousins and many close friends who were his extended family.

Following military service in the Army, Barney was a #445 union carpenter.  Building the house, with the help of family and friends, created a home for his wife and sons. This same labor of love hosted countless parties and gatherings and provided a warm and welcome space for others in times of need.

Barney enjoyed time with family and friends as a member of SS Anthony & Rocco Parish, the San Cataldo Club, Villa Capri Car Club and a "secret soppresata" group.  In earlier years, Barney was a competitive bowler, traveling to and winning tournaments.  Later this same graceful balance and footwork became the foundation of Barney's love of dancing.  Always living life to the fullest, no dance floor could contain him, no suit was too stylish, no classic car show excluded his award-winning '65 convertible, no homemade Italian feast was too large and no gathering of family and friends too great. 

Always willing to lend his talented helping hands, Barney's expertise can be seen in renovations at the parish, numerous local businesses, and untold number of family and friends' homes.  Yet his true talents included building lasting relationships, mentoring his sons and grandchildren, socializing with friends and providing for those in need.

Francis and "Barney" and "Dad" and "Papa" and "Uncle" and even Santa will be sorely missed.  The Honkey Tonk's daily coffee klatsch has lost its storyteller, its dance floor has become unfortunately more spacious and particular songs will never sound the same.  However, Barney's final retirement is well deserved.  We recognize kisses from Barbara, a reunion with his parents and son, unlimited dancing and car shows without masks are best for a man who lived to socialize, not remain socially-distant.

A funeral Mass will be held on Monday at 11:00am at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Smith St., Dunmore. All those attending are kindly and respectfully asked to socially distance and are required to wear a mask immediately upon entering the church.

Interment, Dunmore Cemetery.

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