Francesco “Chick” DeAscanis passed away at age 90, on March 17, 2017 at home surrounded by his family, following a brief illness. Chick was born in New Castle, DE on March 9, 1927, where he resided his entire life. The oldest of nine children of Guido and Celesta DeAscanis, he graduated in 1945 from St. Peter’s Catholic School, where he enjoyed studying math and playing football. After working briefly as a Postal Mail Carrier, he then worked for over 60 years in the construction business, first with his father and brothers at Guido DeAscanis and Sons, Inc. and later with his own sons as CPR Construction, Inc., where he remained active into his 80’s. Starting out building gas stations, his company expanded into homes, condominiums, and business properties within the City of New Castle and New Castle County. Among his many building accomplishments, he was most proud of the residential development of Van Dyke Village.
In 1964, he was elected to a lifetime term as a Trustee of New Castle Common, where he served as president from 2001-2004. His 52 years of service is the longest of any member in the organization’s 252 year history. Chick had also served on the city’s planning commission and was a former member and president of the New Castle Lion’s Club.
Chick was an active parishioner at St. Peter the Apostle Church and in recent years attended daily Mass serving as an usher. He was also a member of the St. Anthony Society and served as a member of the Knights of Columbus. Chick enjoyed family gatherings, especially summer pool parties at his home for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially enjoyed hosting Thursday “spaghetti nights” at his home for his family and friends. His favorite hobby was handicapping and watching horse races at Delaware Park. Chick had a cheerful disposition and always tried to see the positive in life.
Chick was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Colin Kelley; his brothers-n-law, William Lynch and Francis Lucia; and his brothers, Amadeo and Galileo.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine “Connie”, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage; his children, Celeste Kelley, Francis Jr., Paul (Joyce), Lisa Bender (Ron), Christopher (Betty), David (Kristina); 16 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; He is also survived by his brothers, Guido Jr. and Joseph; his sisters, Eleanor Garniewski, Caroline Lucia, Dorothy Lynch and Rose Marie Blakely.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church, 5th and Harmony Streets, New Castle, DE, on Wednesday, March 22 at 12:30 pm. Friends may call at the church from 10:00-12:00pm. Interment will take place in the adjoining cemetery.
Krienen Funeral Home
www.delawarefuneral.com
302-328-9300