Mr. Francis G. "Franny" Klar, Jr.

UTICA – Mr. Francis G. “Franny” Klar, Jr., age 58, passed away after a recent illness of several months on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, surrounded by his devoted family. Born in Utica on May 2, 1964, to the late Francis G. “Frank” Sr. and Louann M. (Caruso) Klar, Franny attended Brandegee Elementary and was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School/Class of 1982. Francis seized the chance to enjoy differing work opportunities. Through working with the ARC of Oneida-Lewis counties, Franny enriched his abilities as he became part of the work force of Sansone’s Distributors, and Nickel Back Redemption Center in Waterville. He had made many wonderful memories while walking around the streets of East Utica as a young man. He was constantly perusing with a bat and mitt in hand always looking for friends to play baseball—a sport in which Franny was so good that he could hit a straight ball out of the park! Additionally, being part of the ARC Program, he took advantage of all of their activities, including bowling as well as other sports. He partook in the Special Olympics and particularly loved to play baseball. While a youth, Franny appreciated attending the Boy’s Club of Utica. He especially loved the experience he had when his sister brought him to a NY Yankee game, when the Yanks beat Boston—a favorite memory of Franny’s being that he was the only Yankee fan in the family. A diehard Yankees fan, he considered Derek Jeter and Reggie Jackson as his main guys, but he did love all the players. Not only did Francis love remembering the good times but he was also known for his excellent memory; in particular, he could recall people’s names. Franny had several passions; he was no stranger to good food, he enjoyed fish fries, fried clams, and considered his favorite bag of Lay’s Potato Chips a must. Furthermore, he delighted in jumping on the bed (until his sister broke him of that happy habit). He so enjoyed his relationship with his cat Daisy. Franny would often cuddle with and sleep snuggled up next to Daisy; she was his best friend. An affectionate soul, he constantly had a smile on his face, and a hug to show his affection. He was beloved by the “East End” community. He was a high-functioning young man who, through the love of his family, was able to accomplish great things. His parents were very protective and Franny was especially attached to his Dad. The two shared special moments together, fishing, and stopping at many garage sales and searching for treasures. With his Mom, he was her greatest helper. He worried about her and tended to her needs in his own special way. He took care of his Papa, particularly when he was sick. During his last few weeks, Francis reminisced about his parents....., almost as if he knew he would be seeing them again soon. His siblings take comfort in knowing that they are all reunited again. Franny was a good child who was raised with much love. He had a pure heart, and a kind soul, and his family was the center of his life. When he was hospitalized and in rehab, Franny spoke of wanting to attend Mass, and his wish was fulfilled. He had received all of his sacraments at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, where he was welcomed into the church. Francis is survived by his sister, Tammy Bottini (and her late husband, Paul E. Bottini, Jr.); and his brothers, Louie Klar, and John E. Klar (and his late wife, Debra Lee “Debbie” Hooks-Klar). At the present time he is engaged to Betsy Reilly. He will live on in the hearts of his nieces and nephews, Paul and Jennifer Bottini, Kara and Jarvis Washington, Krystyna Bottini and Johnny Gonzalez, and Stephen Bottini; Johnathon Klar, and Dominic Klar; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. Franny leaves behind his aunts and uncles, as well as the group of friends he made amongst the workers at the ARC of Oneida-Lewis County; he truly enjoyed them. He will be fondly remembered by all of the Klar family, many of whom reside in Cohoes, NY. He was predeceased by his paternal grandmother, Margaret Klar; his maternal grandparents, Louis T. and Helen “Hully” (McTiernan) Caruso, and his uncles and aunts, including Thomas Caruso. The Klar family would like to thank the staff of the ICU at MVHS at St. Luke’s Campus, who were attentive to Franny’s needs with great compassion. Additional gratitude is extended to those at Utica Rehab, who treated him with kindness and respect, and to the ARC family, who was a great support and continued to connect with the family during his illness. Visitation will take place on Sunday, July 17, 2022, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. His Funeral Service and Celebration of Life will commence at the conclusion of visitation at 4:00 at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest with his parents in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Mr. Francis G. "Franny" Klar, Jr.

May 2, 1964 - July 12, 2022