Frank S. Griffo Jr.

Frank S. Griffo Jr., 88, of Rome, passed away with his loving family by his side, Monday, April 1st, 2024, at Rome Health.

He was born in Staletti, Calabria, Province of Catanzaro, Italy on January 8, 1936. Frank was the youngest son of the late Franceso and Eleanora (Lombardo) Griffo. The family came to this country, settling in Rome, when he was 4 years old.

Frank was educated in local schools and a graduate of Rome Free Academy. Following high school, he attended Utica College and later graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics. He began his career at Griffiss Air Force Base, in 1958, as a Nuclear Physicist in research and development. After a career of 30 years, he retired in 1988.

Frank was joined in marriage to the former Ginette J. DiNardo on November 28, 1959. Frank and Ginette have enjoyed a very loving marriage, devoted to each other and family in every way, for over 64 years.

A fun and easy going guy, Frank loved the arts and music; he played guitar and he imagined he played very well. He was a huge Syracuse Orange fan who loved SU basketball and football. He was also a devoted fan of the NY Yankees. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge on many subjects. Most of all he loved being with family. They were his number one priority with whom he shared many special times and memorable moments.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ginette; daughter, Nora and her husband, Mark Pugh, who was like the son he never had. He adored and cherished the true light of his life, his granddaughter, Lauren and husband, Jared Platt and grandson, Brandon Pugh. He also leaves his brother and sister-in-law, Rocco and Ida Griffo; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Manon and Wayne Nicol; along with many nieces and nephews, especially, Senator Joseph and Lorraine Griffo, County Executive Anthony and Eleanor Picente, and Theresa and Craig Mathews and their son, Anthony.

He was predeceased by two brothers and sisters-in-law, Gregory and Concetta Griffo and Joseph and Betty Griffo.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial, Friday, April 5th, at 11 a.m., at St. Peter’s Church in Rome, NY, where the family will receive visitors following the mass.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Frank’s doctors and nurses for their loving care and compassion, especially Drs. Khokhar, Andrade, and Seedat and nurses from the ICU, Tina, Ashley, Shea, and Garrett.

In memory of Frank, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org

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