Obituary of Frank Durante

Frank J. Durante - January 21, 1923 - April 4, 2018 After a long and fulfilling life Frank has left this earth to join his family and close friends who have gone before him but especially to join his beautiful wife Lucy (Fredo -June 12/1980) in heaven where together they will continue to watch over their family. Predeceased by his mother Angela Durante (DiMarchi 1988), his father Joseph Durante (1929) and his son-in-law Donald Dickson (2012). Lovingly remembered by his children Grace Maskell- Fort Erie, Maria Knowles (Jim)- London, Gloria Lagace - (Tim) Burlington, Frank Durante - (Annette) Fort Erie and Bonnie Dickson - (Donny) Fort Erie, his 14 grandchildren Scott (Diana), Shannon (Ryan), Sean, Sarah (Kwame), Stephanie, Kelly, Matt (Marlene), Steven (Nola), Keith (Caroline), Jessica (Nate), Michelle (Derek), Laura (Mark), David , Kelsey (Jack) and his great-grandchildren - Audrey, James, Cole, Ethan, Andrew, Marcus, Joey, Dylan and Ella. He will also be missed by his sister Ines McGowan (John) along with their children Debbie, Darrow, their families and his in laws, the Fredo family. Frank was born in St. Catherine's Ontario, but lived most of his life in Fort Erie where he raised his family. Frank served in the Canadian Airforce during WWII in the Pacific theatre at Canada's most western lookout post; Langara Island. He often shared with us many of his wonderful stories of the great friendships he developed while on duty. After returning to Fort Erie, he married the love of his life, Lucy. Together they raised their five beautiful children with love, compassion and kindness. Frank was always an active member in the community. One of Frank's proudest accomplishments was his involvement in Catholic Education in Niagara, for which he served 36 years on respective boards, many of them as chairman. Frank was always an active member of St. Michael's parish, and a lifelong member of the Knight of Columbus serving as Grand Knight and the Knights financial secretary for many years. He became part of the prestigious 4th Degree Order participating in many 4th Degree Knights of Columbus activities over the years. As a true Knights believer in patriotism and charity, Frank volunteered with the St Vincent De Paul Society for many years. Thank you to the staff at Revera who provided care for Frank over the last few years and to Dr Scher and the caring staff at Douglas Memorial Hospital. Benner Funeral Services has been entrusted with arrangements. The family will receive visitors on Friday, April 6th from 2-4 and 6-9 pm with vigil prayers will be recited at 3:30pm in the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, April 7th at 11 a.m. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education (The Frank J Durante Bursary) or charity of your choice.