Frank Carretto 83 formerly of Abilene passed away Friday March 11 2011.   The family will receive friends Monday from 6-7:30 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:15 at North's Memorial Chapel 242 Orange Street .   Mass will be Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Bush officiating.   Burial will be in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery under the direction of North's Funeral Home.   Frank was born in Brooklyn New York on 7 September 1927 to Anna and Philip Carretto.   As an infant he moved with his family to the Bronx where he grew up.   His interest in aviation started at a young age which prompted him to attend the High School of Aviation Trades .   Upon graduation he enlisted in the Navy and sailed a desk for three years.   After this tour of duty ended he was a teller in a prominent New York City bank.   The lure of military life however was too great so he re-enlisted this time in the Air Force.   He soon qualified for Officers Candidate School which he completed and proceeded to attain the rank of Major.   Most of his career as an Air Force Officer was spent as a navigator in Air Refueling tankers with the Strategic Air Command.   Upon completion of his Air Force career he was a counselor with the Veterans Administration and with the IRS.   When not working for others Frank was an independent entrepreneur.   At different times he conducted his own real estate business and his own builders supply business.   He married twice the first time to May Turco.   His one and only child Bonita was born of this union.   His second marriage was to Ann De Stefano an Air Force nurse.   It lasted three decades and was the source of much happiness for both.   Frank was unique; generous amiable and witty with an outstanding sense of humor.   These qualities endeared him to everyone he came into contact with.     Frank was predeceased by six brothers and a sister; and by his second wife Ann.   He is survived by his brother Joseph Carretto his daughter Bonita Moravchick his first wife May two grandchildren a great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.   Online condolences can be made at www.northsfuneralhome.com.