Pietro "Pete" Purpura

Peter “Pete” Purpura

Peter “Pete” Purpura, 90, well known businessman and local restaurant owner of Pete’s Pizza of Mount Carmel passed away early Wednesday morning August 29, 2024 at home surrounded by his loving family. Pete was the patriarch of his loving family and kept his Italian roots alive by living his life to the fullest sharing his love with all.

Anytime you came to the restaurant he was always available to spend a moment with you asking how everyone in your family was offering you wine and good time company.

From Mount Carmel to his restaurant in Atlas for over 20 years and then to his Kulpmont location he always had a following. Everyone loved Pete and his family. Many generations have passed through his doors and still keep coming.  He will be surely missed for his kind and gentle ways and his famous “handshake” and “greeting”.

Born in Palermo, Sicily on August 21, 1934 he was the son of the late Graziella (Frisella) and Francesco Purpura.

He married the love of his life Grazia on November 30, 1963.  Pete loved his wife Grazia with his whole heart along with his family and grandchildren.

Prior to immigrating to the states Pete served in the Italian military.

Pete was of the Catholic faith and was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Pete was the well-known owner and proprietor of Pete’s Restaurant in Mount Carmel. He enjoyed spending time and socializing with his friends and customers. Pete radiated sunshine wherever he went and everyone felt it.

In his free time he enjoyed gardening, wine making and cooking.

In addition to his parent’s he is preceded in death by; sister Franca Guzzo; brother in law Salvatore Guzzo; brother Benedetto Purpura; nephew Anthony Musso; niece Sarah Musso.

Pete is survived by; his loving wife Grazia; son Frank Purpura; daughter Grace Schlader (Dave); daughter Giovanna (Antonio) Mangiapane; son Anthony Purpura; grandson Rosolino Mangiapane; granddaughters Daniela & Valeria Mangiapane; sister Vincenza Musso; nieces, nephews, extended family in Sicily; and his beloved dog Valentina.

A viewing for family and friends will be held from Wednesday evening from 5:00-7:00 PM and Thursday morning from 10:00-11:00 AM.  Both viewings will be held from Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 47 S. Market St, Mount Carmel PA 17851. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow the viewing Thursday morning with Fr. Frank Karwacki officiating.  Burial will take place at All Saints Cemetery in Elysburg.  

To extend online condolences, visit www.kullfuneral.com. Rothermel-Heizenroth-Clark Funeral & Cremation Services Inc, 120 S. Market St, Mount Carmel PA 17851 has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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