My name is Christopher Pitetti, and on January 12, 2026, my world changed forever when I lost my father, Captain Frank J. Pitetti Jr. He was only 56 years old—a proud Marine, a dedicated law enforcement officer, and the absolute heart of our family.

After a lifetime of service, he built Ironclad Sportfishing, a charter business that brought joy to veterans, families, and friends out on the water. While generous memorial donations helped us honor him with a beautiful send-off, the funeral costs far exceeded what we received. We made sure those expenses were paid so he could be laid to rest with honor, but doing so has severely drained our resources.

The day after his funeral, we held a final boat send-off for him out on the ocean. In true Captain Frank fashion, we actually had an issue with the Ironclad while we were out there and had to get towed back in. We all had to laugh—it felt like my dad was getting in one last joke. But it also highlighted the daunting reality of what comes next.

I am now caring for my mother, troubleshooting and managing my father's business, and working to keep my own security firm going—all while recovering from a recently broken foot, pursuing my business degree, and facing outstanding tuition and medical bills. The timing of these physical and financial hardships, combined with my own recent job loss, has created a "perfect storm" and a critical financial gap for our family. This is why I am asking for your help.

How your support helps:

Your generosity will help us cover:

This fundraiser is a Bridge to Sustainability, allowing me to stop piecing together disjointed side jobs while injured and focus entirely on what matters most: honoring my father's legacy, supporting my mother, and protecting the team that depends on us.

If you aren’t in a position to donate, please consider sharing our story—truly, it helps more than you know. Or, if you’d like to support us in another way, you can keep us in mind for the professional services I already provide:

Book a charter with Ironclad Sportfishing (once stabilized/when available, we’ll offer memorial cruises / celebration-of-life charters for families honoring their own loved ones)

Reach out for professional protection through my private security company

Ask questions about financial continuity for your family, from securing life insurance to understanding how establishing a trust can protect your own family's legacy.

There is no pressure at all—just know there are multiple ways to support our family as we work to stabilize, rebuild, and carry my father’s legacy forward.

Thank you for standing by our family. Semper Fi.

With deep gratitude,

Christopher & Crystal Pitetti

Memorial Service Videos:

February 12, 2026 Memorial Speeches:

February 13, 2026 Ceremony & Interment: