Frank A. Cristell

Frank A. Cristell, 79, of Neptune, passed away at home on September 20, 2021 surrounded by his wife and children. Frank was born in Newark, NJ on November 21, 1941 to Anton and Mary Cristell. He was the first of six children. He later attended Seton Hall University where he obtained his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Soon after graduating he started his sales and marketing career with Colgate. He later had careers at Dow Chemical and Dow Corning and in the 1980s, began his career in the telecommunications field. Always an entrepreneur, Frank found success with his own business startups in the world of telecommunications. Never someone to shy away from hard work, Frank continued to work and provide for his family until the end. Frank was an avid golfer and movie buff and could often be heard quoting lines from his favorite gangster movies. He and his kids would watch their favorite movies over and over again, much to his wife's chagrin. Frank loved entertaining and was always manning the grill at his family’s huge backyard parties. Frank was always the biggest presence in the room. There isn't one person who knew him that doesn't have a funny Frank story. Always a joker, Frank was known for his corny jokes and memorable laugh. But as silly as he was, he was also the most selfless man you could ever have the pleasure of knowing. A true problem solver and helper all the way to the end. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Laura L. Cristell of Neptune, his son, Russell Cristell and his wife Erica Cristell of South Plainfield, son Michael Cristell of Neptune, daughter Margaret Fox and her husband Anthony Fox of Brick and his grandson, Jayden Cristell. Also surviving are two brothers, Donald Cristell and Jeff Cristell and two sisters, Joy O'Reilly and Marlene Powell. Frank's family will be having a private celebration of his life for his 80th birthday. They will plan a memorial with extended family and friends in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project. "And now the end is near And so I face the final curtain My friend I'll say it clear I'll state my case, of which I'm certain I've lived a life that's full I traveled each and every highway And more, much more than this I did it my way" - Frank Sinatra