Vitous

Frank William Vitous, 80, of Stanardsville, Va., passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at the University of Virginia Medical Center.

He was born on May 21, 1946, in Pittsburgh, son of the late Henry and Henrietta Vitous. Growing up in the city instilled in him a love for American history and a seemingly endless energy for exploring museums and historical places.

Frank was a hardworking man who never sat still for long. A gifted mechanic who lived by the motto, “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” he continued working until the age of 79, despite being harassed by his family to retire. In his spare time, he rebuilt antique cars, including a 1941 Chevy Coupe.

Frank found joy in the simple things in life. He loved being outdoors and spending time in nature, whether that was hunting, chopping wood or working with his tractor. He could often be found sitting on the porch drinking Pepsi and eating chocolate ice cream. If you pulled up a chair and handed him a beer there was an excellent chance you would be treated to some extraordinary stories.

Frank was a man who loved people and was deeply loved in return. He had a remarkable way of making connections. He never met anyone who didn’t love him, especially the four-legged type. Frank leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will carry his love with them always. Though he is no longer with us, the mark he made on those around him will never fade. He will be missed more than words can express.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Charlene Vitous; his children, Sandy Karp (Jeremy), Frank Vitous Jr. (Dana) and Jessie Powell (Jono); his grandchildren, Hope, Ben, Evan, Audrey, Isabella, Savannah, Luna and Crew; his great-grandchildren, Bryn and Kennedy; his brothers, Clay Hartman, Billy Vitous and Robert Vitous; and a host of additional family members and friends who loved him dearly.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his sister, Bev McKenna.

VITOUS — There will be no formal funeral service for Frank William Vitous, who died Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026. A private celebration of Frank’s life will be held with immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

FOUND AND SONS FUNERAL CHAPEL OF CULPEPER is serving the family.

An online guest book and tribute wall are available at https://www.foundandsons.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.