Frank Kingett

Native Staten Islander Frank Kingett, 83, of Pleasant Plains, a retired insurance agent, Navy veteran and Mason who liked spending time at the beach, died Friday at home.

Born in Pleasant Plains, he remained in that community.

Mr. Kingett was a life insurance agent for New York Life and John Hancock Mutual Life from 1965 to 1990. His territory was Tottenville, where he made many friendships during his career that lasted into his retirement.

Prior to that, he worked as an assistant to the president of Air Tron, Linden, N.J., from 1952 to 1965.

He attended Tottenville High School before leaving at age 17 to join the U.S. Navy.

He was a Third Degree Mason.

After retiring, Mr. Kingett took several trips to Europe. He also liked going to the Jersey Shore, especially Long Beach Island, and walking on the beach.

At home, he loved to feed the birds and watch them on the bird feeders on his front porch.

He was also a gardener and took pride in the tomatoes he grew, giving them to family and friends.

Mr. Kingett especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and his dogs.

Dad was a very honest, fun-loving and likeable guy, who went out of his way to help his friends and neighbors, said his daughter, Cathy Kingett.

Daughter Diane Wurzler said he was a good family man.

His wife of 37 years, the former Dora Lee, died in 1987.

His daughter, Patricia Woods, died in 2002. His daughter, Christine Smith, died in July.

He is survived by a son, William; two daughters,

Cathleen Kingett and Diane Wurzler; a brother, Delzon; four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Arrangements, including cremation, are being handled by Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville, with a memorial service there Oct. 26 at 11 a.m.

Services: Memorial Service at Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home Saturday, October 26, 2013 12:00PM

Visitation: Memorial Visitation at Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home Saturdday, October 26, 2013 11 -12 PM

Cemetery: Cremation Will Be Private

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home

Church: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home