Frank A. Bocchino, Sr., 86, of Jefferson Twp., formerly of Norwood, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2015. Beloved husband of Carol (nee Morone). Cherished father of Cheryl Lucious and husband Monte of Norwood, Karen Elliott of Gloucester, MA, Michelle Spafford and husband Dennis of Inverness, FL, Frank Jr. and wife Laura of Norwood and Mark and wife Melba of Norwood. Adored grandfather of seventeen and great-grandfather of twelve. Dearest brother of Michael and wife Marianna of Brick, and Joseph of Little Egg Harbor. He was predeceased by his wife Betty, brother Charles “Chubby” and his wife Joan sister, Barbara Caruso and her husband August and son-in-law John Elliott.
Frank was a master plumber who owned Michael F. Bocchino and Sons Plumbing in Norwood.
Frank dedicated his life to the fire service. He was President of the NJ State Firemen’s Association from 1994-2003 after having served as executive and vice-president for many years. He was a 63 year life member of the Norwood Volunteer Fire Department where he was Chief 1971-72, Firefighter of the Year in 1977 and was proud to be their chaplain for many years. Frank was also a life member of the NJ State Exempt Firemen’s Association, where he was also past president and the NJ/NY Firemen’s Association. Frank was an active parishioner of Immaculate Conception RC Church, Norwood and was a Eucharistic minister. He served in the National Guard from 1946-53. Frank was also one of the founders of Little League Baseball in Norwood.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception with interment to follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY. Visiting hours are Thursday 2-4 and 6-9 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale 201-767-3050.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the NJ Firemen’s Home, 565 Lathrop Ave., Boonton, NJ 07005 would be greatly appreciated.
www.pizzifuneralhome.com