After two years leading one of Long Island’s most active Knights of Columbus councils, Frank DeNatale, Jr. has officially passed the torch.
The longtime Shirley resident stepped down as Grand Knight of the James V. Kavanaugh Council 5293 in June, concluding a term defined by community service, charitable giving, and fraternal leadership. DeNatale, who has been a Knight since 1994, said the role was one of the most fulfilling of his life.
“It’s been an honor,” he said. “The council has done a lot of good for a lot of people—and I’m proud to have been part of that.”
DeNatale helped guide the Mastic-based council to three consecutive Star Council awards, the highest distinction granted by the Supreme Council in Connecticut. The recognition reflects achievement in membership growth, charitable outreach, and support for the Catholic Church.
“That’s not about me,” DeNatale insisted. “It’s about the entire council—brothers stepping up, meeting needs, and living out the values of charity, unity, and fraternity.”
Under his leadership, Council 5293 provided thousands of dollars in grants to local fire and ambulance districts, supported youth sports teams, sponsored annual barbecues for the community, and helped feed hundreds of families through the council’s Food for Families program. “Over two years, we assisted 186 families,” he noted. “That’s the kind of work that makes all the meetings, the planning—it makes it all worthwhile.”
DeNatale brought to the role a deep knowledge of local issues, having served as a Brookhaven Town Senior Housing Inspector and liaison to Suffolk County law enforcement. He’s also a familiar voice on the airwaves as producer of Your Island with Tom Schiliro on 103.9 FM.
As Grand Knight, DeNatale oversaw committee work, ran meetings twice a month, represented the council at district and county-level events, and participated in solemn ceremonial duties, such as honoring deceased members with condolence presentations to their families. “We try to be there for each other,” he said, “in good times and hard times.”
Though stepping down as Grand Knight, DeNatale remains an active member of the council and was recently named District Warden for Council 3. He said he’ll continue to support the new Grand Knight, Frank Nappi, and encourages others to join the brotherhood.
“If you’re a Catholic man looking to give back, make connections, and grow in faith, this is a great place to do it,” he said.
Council 5293, located at 176 Madison Street in Mastic, is open to new members and also offers its hall for events. Anyone interested can call 631-281-4473.