Mr. Francis R. "Frank" "Bushy" Collea

Mr. Francis R. “Frank” “Bushy” Collea, age 77, of North Utica, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2011 at the Upstate Medical Center. He was blessed with the love and support of his family at the time of his passing. Born in Utica on September 12, 1934, Francis was the son of the late Charles and Margaret (Kenefick) Collea. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of Utica Catholic Academy. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he honorably served his country during the Korean War. On September 14, 1968 he married the former Maryann V. Iacovella with whom he shared a union of 43 years blessed with happiness and devotion to each other. Bushy worked as a Highway Equipment Operator for the New York State Department of Transportation, the position from which he retired. To his family, he was a very devoted patriarch, generous, selfless, and very attentive to their needs. He was a fantastic father who loved his children unconditionally and was always supportive, fun-loving, and involved in their activities. A protective father-figure, he held a special love for children, both his own and the neighborhood kids. He enjoyed the outdoors, loved fishing in his younger years, and was an exceptional basketball player and a member of the Navy team. Frank is survived by his wife Maryann; his daughters and son-in-law, Maria and Andy Anderson of AZ, and Lori Collea of Oneida and Peter Gleason; and his grandchildren, Jessica Zegarelli and fiancé Chris Maine, and Allison Wrafter. He also leaves his sisters, Katherine Grimmer, and Eileen Philo; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph and Ruth Collea, Jerome and Joyce Collea, and Robert and Jean Collea; his uncle, John Montaldo; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, especially acknowledging Frank “Hanky D” DiDominick; and in-laws, Frank Gaetano, Marilyn Minor, and Virginia and Anthony Muccari. He was predeceased by his brothers, John, James, and Charles; and his sisters, Margaret, Victoria, and Ethel. The family wishes to acknowledge the outstanding and loving efforts provided by Nurse Practitioner Dana Ruth in caring for Frank. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Frank’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday evening at 6:00 at the funeral home immediately upon the conclusion of visitation with Rev. Anthony P. LaFache officiating. Interment will take place at St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Francis R. "Frank" "Bushy" Collea

September 12, 1934 - October 10, 2011