Mr. Francis Gregory "Frank" Chirico

Mr. Francis Gregory “Frank” Chirico, age 86, passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord at the St. Joseph Nursing Home after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease on December 31, 2013, with his loving and devoted family by his side. Born in Herkimer, NY on April 20, 1927, Frank was the son of the late Anthony and Francesca (Cimino) Chirico. He was a graduate of Herkimer High School, class of 1944, and Albany Business College. Frank was a proud member of United States Navy, and served his country during World War II as a Seaman, First Class aboard the USS Fall River heavy cruiser. On June 18, 1960, he married the former Mary L. Gelose. They shared a loving marriage of 53 years. Frank was the quintessential salesman, and enjoyed a long and successful career which began at Remington Rand. He was later employed at Addressograph Multigraph Corporation, where he was a member of the Hundred Club. It was during his tenure at Electrolux Corporation, first as sales representative, and later as Branch Manager, that Frank found his true career calling. He serviced hundreds of satisfied customers throughout central NY, and consecutively earned sales leader of the month designations as well as earning the “Career Sales Leader” award. Frank served as commander of the Tony R. George Post of Herkimer, and was a member of the St. Anthony’s Crusaders. He was a parishioner of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Frank loved the great outdoors and enjoyed spending free time in his garden, fishing, and on vacations with his family. After his retirement, he discovered his artistic talents and became an accomplished painter. Frank is survived by his cherished wife, Mary; his son Mark Chirico; his daughters Maria and Lisa Chirico; his sister Mary V. Chirico; his sister-in-law Rosemarie Chirico; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will also be mourned by his brother-in-law Sam Gelose and his wife Angie; and his brother-in-law James Gelose. He was preceded in death by his sister Anna Golden and her husband Richard Golden; his brothers Vincent and Anthony Chirico; his mother-in-law, Sophie Gelose and his father-in-law James Gelose; his sister-in-law Veta Thurston and her husband Blaze Thurston; his sister-in-law Nora Gelose; and his brother-in-law Pat Gelose and his wife Rose. Frank’s family is forever thankful to the Carmelite Sisters at St. Joseph Nursing Home for their spiritual guidance, love, and support during his stay. In addition, they would like to thank the entire St. Joseph Nursing Home staff, especially the nurses and CNAs of the second floor for their compassionate care. A special thank you is extended to the Palliative Care Team and the nurses of 3 West at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare. The family will receive visitors in the Parish community of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, 2222 Genesee St. in Utica, on Monday morning from 10:30-11:30. Frank’s life will be honored and celebrated in a Mass of Christian Burial with military honors at 12:00 noon celebrated by Rev. Joseph Salerno. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to express an act of kindness may make a donation in Frank’s name to the University of South Florida Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute of Tampa, FL; envelopes will be available at the service. Entombment will take place in the Calvary Mausoleum at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Francis Gregory "Frank" Chirico

April 20, 1927 - December 31, 2013