Frank "Hank" DeFazio

Mr. Frank “Hank” DeFazio, age 93, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday November 20, 2018 with his beloved family by his side.

He was born in Utica, on June 16, 1925 a son of the late Bernard and Rose Graziano DeFazio and was educated in local schools, having graduated from TR Proctor High School. Frank went on to serve our country during WW II in the US Army in the European Theatre stationed in Anzio, Italy. During his tour of duty Frank and his platoon came under intense battle where he received life threatening injuries. For his heroic efforts he was awarded the distinguished Purple Heart. He then continued his education at LaFayette College in Easton, PA where he received his BS degree in Civil Engineering. On November 27, 1958 he was married to Rosemarie Guarnieri in St. Anthony’s Church, a blessed union of 60 years this week.

Frank was employed for over 34 years with the Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). He was a Senior Civil Engineer, retiring as the Assistant Regional Director in 1980. Subsequently, he worked at UFCW Local One as the Pension and Legal Manager until his retirement in 1990. In his leisure time Frank was an avid golfer and enjoyed his winters in Boca Raton, FL.  He loved spending time with his friends and colleagues. He was a member of the DAV Stars & Stripes # 82 and the Tau Phi Zeta Fraternity. Frank was a kind, good hearted, quiet and humble man. He was a perfect gentleman and never spoke an unkind word. He had a smile that would light up a room and always had a positive outlook on life. To know Frank, was to love him. His true passion in life was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather whose life centered around his family. Although they are filled with great sadness, he will forever live in their hearts.

Surviving are his beloved wife Rosemarie; his beloved son and daughter-in-law Frank II and Rena (Ventura) DeFazio of Utica; his beloved daughter MaryAnn Bonomo of Waterville; his cherished grandchildren, Melanie Bonomo, Andrew Bonomo, Maya DeFazio and Michael DeFazio and great grandchildren Jessie Dennis and Justine Dennis; two sisters Mary Sciortino and Jane Mercurio; his sister-in-law Joanne Schumann; and several nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was predeceased by one brother Dominick DeFazio and one sister Frances Lawrie.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Monday at 11:00 am at St. Anthony/St. Agnes Church with Military Honors conferred. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the DAV Stars & Stripes Chapter # 82. Envelopes will be available.