Frank Decker

Frank Decker, 63, of Ligonier, died Friday afternoon, July 21, 2023 at his home after a period of quickly declining health.

Born in Johnstown, PA on October 24, 1959, he was the son of the late Robert and Verna (Nadolski) Decker. He was a graduate of Laurel Valley High School.

Frank was joy and humor embodied, whose jokes and generosity impacted each person he encountered. Frank enjoyed his model trains, his camp in Linesville, and traveling. Above all, he loved to care for the people around him. As a brother with Big Brothers, Big Sisters, a donor to Ligonier Youth Inc., and as a landlord, he made the lives of so many better for his efforts. Frank was also giving of his time and talent, building play sets, caring for his family, and living each of his days selflessly and for the betterment of others.

Frank spent 35 years with the late Lennea Darrin. Together, Lennea and Frank purchased “Dan Smith’s Candies” from Lennea’s brother in 1998. They ran the business together until they sold the business to the current owner in 2015. During their tenure they operated three “Dan Smith’s Candies” with locations in Brookville, Ridgway, and Clarion. He often said the gift of running a successful business was that it allowed him to be unsparing in his generosity to others.

Frank spent the last 18 months of his life with his love and best friend, Lori Sapalio, with whom, and for whom, he lived. She survives.

His survivors include his sisters, Victoria (Vicki) Beppler and Linda Decker and nephew Lieutenant Commander Ryan Decker. Family members also include Lori’s daughters Amy Blythe and Deanna Buchinsky, seven grandchildren, and Lennea’s daughter, Tracy Huster.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 28th at 3:00 PM at Champion Lakes Golf Course. Interment will be in Armagh at Armagh Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of McCabe Funeral Home 144 E. Main St. Ligonier.