Frank R. Crisanto

Frank R. Crisanto, 93, formerly of Long Branch, died peacefully on Feb.19, 2021 with his children at his side.

Renato Francesco Crisanto was born in Acquapessa, in the province of Cosenza, Italy. As a young boy he picked olives in local orchards, receiving small amounts of olive oil in exchange for his labor. At the age of 19, Frank immigrated through Ellis Island to join his father in the family-owned shoe repair business. His mother, sister, and brother followed and the family was reunited in Freehold. In 1955, he married Mary Lou Dixon, and together they had three children.

Frank served with distinction in the United States Army in the Korean War, receiving multiple decorations including the Purple Heart.  He was very proud of his citizenship and his service in the 45th “Thunderbird” Infantry Division, 180th Infantry Regiment, Rifle Company “B”.

Frank was the original proprietor of the iconic Windmill restaurant in Long Branch, which he founded and operated alongside his wife beginning in 1965. For the rest of his life, a great many people continued to refer to him as Frankie Windmill.  In 1978, he opened Oceans 20, still remembered as one of the most popular Jersey Shore restaurants and nightspots of its time. During his retirement years, he served as an usher at St. Jude Roman Catholic Church in Jupiter, Florida.

Frank was always there for his friends, and those who benefitted from his kindness will not soon forget his generosity of spirit.

A beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, Frank was predeceased by his father and mother, Fausto “Frank” Crisanto and Quintina “Tina” Crisanto; his sister and brother-in-law Olga Crisanto DeSieno and Silvino DeSieno; his nephew David DeSieno; and his brother and sister-in-law Walter Crisanto and Judith Crisanto.

Frank is survived by his son, Victor Crisanto and his wife Lynn Crisanto; his daughter, Nancy Crisanto Bradley and her husband Paul Bradley; his daughter, Tina Crisanto Squillante and her husband Mark Squillante; his former wife and the mother of his children, Mary Lou Crisanto; five nieces and nephews; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 26 at 10:30 am at St. Michael’s Church, 800 Ocean Avenue in West End Long Branch. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to DAV (Disabled American Veterans), P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati OH 45250. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.