Frank J. “Sonny” Porto III

Born in Athens, he was the son of the late Frank “Chick” Jr. and Susie Apa Porto. Sonny often fondly reminisced about his humble childhood in Brick Row, Athens. Later in his childhood, the family moved to Catskill where he graduated from St. Patrick’s Academy. Frank went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Business from Syracuse University. In 1959 he founded Porto Insurance Agency, Catskill, building a very successful business from scratch, which he retired from in 2012. On September 7, 1963 he married his wife of 57 years, Linda Brandt.

Active in our community, Frank was a former Chair of the Town of Catskill Republican Committee, a member of the Catskill Elks Lodge -1341 and Catskill Golf Club. He was also a life-long parishioner of St. Patrick’s Church.

Loving husband of Linda Porto, father of Vicki Crossett (Lance) of East Berne and the late Frank Porto IV who died in 1986, brother of Shirley Yates of Florida, grandfather of Carter, Caden and Cecilia, uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Sonny loved his family, friends and his hometown. He was a loyal husband, father, and friend. An extremely hard worker, he loved the people of Catskill. He was often called “the informal mayor of Catskill,” and could often be seen along Main Street greeting people and shaking their hands.

He loved his family beyond measure, especially his grandchildren who meant the world to him. Sonny will be greatly missed but we are thankful he is now at peace.

Unfortunately, due to the current pandemic resurgence, and certain family members being in high risk categories, services for Frank will be private. He will be buried next to his son in St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Contributions, in Frank’s memory, may be made to St. Patrick’s Church, 66 William St, Catskill, NY 12414; Matthew 25 Food Pantry, 8 Union St, Catskill, NY 12414, or the “Greene Meadows Activity Dept.”, 161 Jefferson Hgts., Catskill, NY 12414.

Funeral arrangements under the direction of Millspaugh Camerato Funeral Home, 139 Jefferson Hgts., Catskill. Messages of condolence may be made to MillspaughCamerato.com.