Frank Leo Asaro Jr.

Sept. 16, 1953 – Jun. 05, 2025

San Diego, CA

Frank Leo Asaro, Jr., known lovingly as “Butch”, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the age of 71, surrounded by his family.

First-born son and eldest child of the late Frank L. Asaro and Sharon L. Asaro, Butch began his life’s journey amidst the rugged beauty of Ketchikan, Alaska where his father was stationed in the U.S. Coast Guard. After his father's service concluded, the young family returned to beautiful San Diego where Frank would reside for the remainder of his life.

Butch attended Robert E. Lee Elementary and O’Farrell Middle School where his passion for sports, particularly baseball, began to blossom. He was a standout pitcher in Little League and played on several competitive teams, including the Paradise Hills Pony League “Twins.” During his teenage years, the family moved to Scripps Ranch, and though he considered himself a Morse Tiger at heart, he graduated from Madison High School in 1971.

Throughout his journey, Butch always found his deepest fulfillment in the simple joys of life - family, nature, and companionship. He was a devoted father to his two children, Anthony and Jennifer, with whom he shared countless adventures under the stars camping, hiking, and embracing life’s quiet moments. He also shared his love of baseball with them throughout their childhoods, from regular Father-son trips to watch the Padres play at Qualcomm Stadium to coaching his daughter on the local T-ball team. At family party tables, his legendary mashed potatoes, Jell-O salad, shrimp cocktail, and stuffed mushrooms were staples that served as unforgettable reminders of the care and love he poured into family traditions.

Over the years, Butch became well known for his funny bone - he was quick-witted, with an endearing humor that was contagious to all those around him. He loved to make others smile and laugh, always cracking jokes for anyone who would listen. He was the kind of man whose kindness left a lasting impression, and he never missed an opportunity to share a laugh or lend a hand to a friend in need.

Beyond his family, Butch also had a deep love for animals. His home was always a refuge for any pet that crossed his path. Whether it was dogs, cats, or birds, he cared for them with the same tenderness and affection that defined his relationships with people. His love for animals brought him endless joy and comfort, and he will be remembered for the warmth he offered to every furry or feathered friend that was lucky enough to be a part of his life.

He is survived by loving ex-wife Mina Asaro, and their two children, Anthony (Stephanie) and Jennifer; his siblings Lori (Adam Jastrzebski), Guy (Chelsea), and Michael (Laurie); nephews Sean (Jenna), Joseph, and Nicholas; nieces Jamie Warburton, Kate Capps (Christian), and Grace Antil (Atul); as well as countless extended family members and friends who cherished him. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his paternal uncle, Andrew Asaro.

Butch’s legacy is one of humility, compassion, laughter, and loyalty. His caring heart will be fondly remembered and lovingly missed by all who were blessed to know him.

Services will be held on July 14th, 2025, at 9:30 AM at Little Italy’s Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, with reception to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to donate to an animal shelter or wildlife-focused charity of your choice to honor Butch’s lifelong love of and care for animals.