Frank J Deledda

June 16, 1934 - December 7, 2021

Frank J. Deledda, a longtime Altoona resident and devoted husband, passed away on December 7 after a fall and hip surgery. He was 87. A Navy submariner turned tax manager, Deledda often said his true purpose was making his wife Beverly "Gaile" Gibson happy. The couple celebrated their 42nd anniversary in November and lived together on their 8-acre, oak-lined farm that Deledda meticulously maintained. A proud Italian American, Deledda grew up in Detroit where his father worked for Ford Motor Company. He graduated in 1950 from Detroit's distinguished Cass Technical High School, whose famous alumni include singer Diana Ross. Deledda joined the Navy, serving 26 years before he retired in 1979 as a Master Chief. He then earned his bachelor's degree from Rollins College. Deledda later worked as a military contractor in Southern Georgia before turning to taxes for the next two decades. For many years, he managed the Mount Dora H&R Block office. Admired by his clients, Deledda enjoyed his work and most liked meeting new people. Friends joked that he had the "gift of gab," always entertaining others with stories from the Navy or the everyday life of a gentleman farmer. Deledda and Gaile met in 1976 and spent the start of their relationship apart while Deledda was stationed in Scotland. Even though he never liked horseback riding, Deledda always joined Gaile, an avid equestrian, at her horse shows, lovingly looking on and cheering. He helped care for their numerous horses over the years. And even when he said he didn't want to adopt another four-legged creature - be it a dog, cat, or horse - he quickly embraced them as members of the family. Deledda loved hosting friends and family at his home, especially those who brought butterscotch and peanut butter pie. He cherished his time with loved ones and maintained close relationships with extended family despite the distance. Deledda is survived by his wife; three brothers-in-law, Gary, Sammy, and Mike Gibson, and their wives, Patti, Beverly, and Wendy; six nieces and nephews; sons, Robert and Kenneth Deledda; and three grandsons, Vicent Dario Deledda, Scott Edward Deledda, and Robert Anthony Deledda, as well as six great-grandchildren.