Bonnie, Betsy & family, We are thinking of, and praying for you all at this very sad time –
Sincerely, your Newburch cousins; Kath Larson (NC), Marilyn Larson Johnston (TN), and Craid Larson, Sr. (TN)
Frank, Thank you for all you have done for the Gray Eagles! You will be greatly missed as our captain and friend –
With great love & respect, Fred & Terry Carbon, Bo Bertino
I met Frank while he and his 6th Grade Crew (Bob & Pete) were teaching at Craig Hill and I (6th Grade) at Autumn Lane…….a bunch of other 6th Grade teachers from Brookside,Parkland,& West Ridge started a 6th Grade Softball League that played on Saturdays. We even got the Greece Director of Athletics to buy a trophy that went to the winners of the league each year!
After this, Frank joined with other Greece teachers to play on recreational softball teams: Castle Dragon Power and none bigger than a hastily put together team in 1975 (Gaze Realty) to play in the very first USSSA “Class C” World Championships in Rochester,NY. Frank was an integral part of this team anchoring 1st Base. We shocked ourselves and all of the softball community in Rochester & New York State by winning this inaugural event! We had the honor of being inducted into the NYS Softball Hall of Fame as a “Team of Distinction” in 2019. This was the last time I saw Frank and he was as humble as ever and shook my hand with his huge hands! Take a rest now,Frank, and onto another adventure…..
Dave Thomas, Churchville,NY
Working with Frank and everyone at Athena Middle School in the 90’s (and beyond) truly emulated what a “work family” was. Frank always had his door open for a student, colleague or to lend support on an issue or concern. Always knowledgeable on various topics, Frank had information and/or opinion on any subject and was just a “no-nonsense” kind of guy. He was simply “a pillar” to so many in our community. We were always bigger, better and stronger with Frank at the helm. There was never any doubt about his leadership, care and consideration for others. Frank was always “the voice of reason.”
“We walk by faith, not by sight,” so we must believe that his tasks to serve are ongoing and simply needed elsewhere.
“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.”
(J.M. Barrie)
Always loved and respected.
Godspeed.
God bless his family and the love and memories you will always share.
I’ve been struggling to find the words, some way to express the deep loss I’m feeling, the sorrow I hold in my heart for his family, but the words I know are not adequate for this expression. This is my attempt.
From humility to humor,
integrity to inspiration, dependable to dedication, sensible to silly, conscientious to ( very) caring, and all of the positive words that come in between.
A man of great stature physically and intectually. A leader and model of everything that is good .
Above all, Frank was a man who loved his family with every part of his being. I know they will feel that love forever !
I am honored , and grateful for having had Frank in my life. I’m a better person for it.
He and Bob had a unique friendship. It is comforting to think that they are up there drinking coffee,
sharing memories, and laughing about all of their silly antics.
I will miss Frank greatly.
“Our gentle giant.”
He will forever be in my heart.
I had the privilege of working with Frank at Athena Middle for many years. He was a gifted leader not only in his classroom but in our school and greater district as well. And he did it with a strong dose of thoughtfulness, humility, honed listening skills, and…especially humor. One specific example of his character was witnessed during an interaction he had with a young man who was doing his best job trying to get kicked out of a summer literacy/ math program we were co-teaching in. After several days of antics, Frank asked the young man to step into the hallway for a private conversation. He stooped down at eye level about a foot from the student’s face and calmly said, “I know what you’re trying to do…but we’re not going to let you go.” The stunned student stared back for a few moments, finally mumbled something, went back into the classroom, and successfully completed the six week program without a hitch. That was vintage Frank.
Those of us who knew him are so thankful for the positive impact of his life and friendship on us and the lives he touched. Sincere condolences to Bonnie, Dan, Deana, Courtney, and all of the grandchildren he so greatly loved.
Mr. Connell was a very influential teacher in my life. I was in his sixth grade class at Greece Athena Middle School in 1995-1996. He nominated me for an award at the end of the school year and I was totally surprised and honored by the award. It boosted my self-confidence and I credit him with helping me become a better student. I remember his love of the Titanic (this was before the movie came out). My mom said she would see him occasionally at Wegmans and he’d ask about what I was up to. Sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed. – Kaitlin (McCarthy) Luna
When I started my teaching profession in 1999 at Athena, Frank quickly became a close friend and supporter of me, a first-year teacher. It didn’t take long for Frank to welcome me to Athena, and soon thereafter we would collaborate as classroom teacher and librarian, creating an online research project for students on the then new Internet. The “Wonders of the World Webquest” would end up receiving some awards and accolades, in large part to Frank’s original educational design and concept.
We also shared an interest in Chess, and I was Frank’s assistant coach for Athena’s Chess Club. We took the club on the road, competing in the Rochester Chess league. We took our middle school graders on the road for many matches, and often won against high school teams (finishing first in the league’s standings for several years).
Aside from school, Frank and I shared a passion for cycling, and he soon introduced me to the “Westside” network of backroads that I was new to, having just recently moved to the Rochester area. Frank was an experienced, strong cyclist, and over the years we’d ride hundreds of miles together. I’ll never forget riding our first “long ride” together to Point Breeze – we started from his house in early April one year, battling a seemingly 30 mph headwind. I slipstreamed behind Frank for most of the way that windy day, lol. I credit Frank for getting me enthusiastically back into cycling in the early 2000’s. I don’t know if this would have happened if it weren’t for Frank.
When Frank retired from teaching, I immediately knew then he’d be greatly missed at our school, and I was going to miss him as a colleague. Since his retirement, I’ve done my best to strive to be just a fraction of the great teacher he was – and I don’t think I’ve been successful, because he was such an outstanding teacher. I was fortunate to still catch up with Frank from time to time, we would occasionally meet for breakfast to catch up. And Frank was the kind of friend where you could easily pick up where you left off, despite not seeing each other in person for a while.
My heart goes out to Frank and his family – he has impacted thousands of people’s lives so profoundly positively. Truly an amazing person, a Renaissance man in every sense. My sincere condolences to the Connells.
I am truly saddened by Frank’s passing. I met Frank in Spin class in 2004 and our friendship grew from there. We would ride together and also with groups of people. When I told him I was training for a 600 mile/6 day bike ride to cape cod, our workouts intensified. I was thrilled when Frank decided to ride with me on the 1st 100 mile ride to Ithaca. Bonnie was our sweep wagon behind us all the way to Ithaca. My family with Frank and Bonnie enjoyed a great meal that evening as they were leaving in the morning. What I didn’t know was that Frank followed me in his car the next morning as I began the arduous climb out of Ithaca to ensure I didn’t need help. That spoke volumes to the type of person Frank was. Not only was he an intellectual but compassionate , caring and funny. My sincere condolences to Bonnie and her family.
Milan Katz
Scott Mykins
I’m am very Sad to here of Franks ( Mr. Connell / Always Mr. Connell to me) Passing. My Thoughts
and prayers to his Wife And Family , Frank Was my Fifth and Six Grade teacher At Craig Hill in the late Seventies and was very instrumental with keeping me on the right path of life. I would see him
through out the years at Wegmans and the Long Pond family Restaurant where we set and talk on occasion. the last time I saw him was this Last October At Greece Athena HS where I Started my Second Career. I will always have have those great memories . God Bless
Buddy was a classmate of mine NFA 67. We were teammates on the K of C little league team the Giants. Also both of us were stellar altar servers at Saint Mary’s. Wonderful pictures shared of our families in a previous post. Even my four sons are posted in a Brannigan/, Connell family function. RIP Frank. My sincere condolences to the entire Connell family.
Richard & Janet Brannigan
Frank was a wonderful teacher who influenced all those who had him as their teacher. He was a wonderful colleague and friend to many. He was a mentor to me when I became Principal at Athena Middle. He will be missed in many ways.
I work with Courtney and was sad to hear of your family’s loss. This is such a beautiful tribute from a caring family. You have my heartfelt condolences and wishes for your comfort.
XThe accessibility of our website is taken very seriously. We strive to meet WCAG 2.1 AA Web Accessibility standards by routinely evaluating our website using automated evaluation tools and manual testing when required. As content changes we review and correct issues and are responsive to our users needs. If you encounter issues with our website, please report them so they may be corrected in a timely manner.
In loving memory of Francis X. Connell –
Our love to all the family, The Dillons; Michael, Marcia, Steve & Tom Michael Dillon
For Frank, With all our love –
From, Dan & Sarah, friends in Cold Spring
Deepest condolences –
Len & Robin Jankiewicz, from Gray Eagles
Sending love and sympathy to Bonnie & family –
The Gordon Family
Bonnie, Betsy & family, We are thinking of, and praying for you all at this very sad time –
Sincerely, your Newburch cousins; Kath Larson (NC), Marilyn Larson Johnston (TN), and Craid Larson, Sr. (TN)
Bonnie & Family, With deepest sympathy –
Pat & Joe
With sincere sympathy –
The Billington Family
Bonnie, Courtney, Deana & Danny, With our deepest sympathies –
Jacqui Alsheff & Family, John & Carol Morana
“Husband” “Best Friend”
“Dad” “Hero”
With deepest sympathy –
William & Lou Ann Olles
Our sincere condolences –
From COS – School of Mathematics and Statistics
My thoughts are with you and your family –
The Cartwright Family
“Papa”
The Ferrell family –
Bill Sr., & Brenda, Jim & Emily, Lori, Zach
Thinking of you with sincere sympathy at the loss of someone so dear –
With Love, Joe Kressey & Jack Olles
Our beloved brother –
From, the families of his sister and brother
Frank, Thank you for all you have done for the Gray Eagles! You will be greatly missed as our captain and friend –
With great love & respect, Fred & Terry Carbon, Bo Bertino
I met Frank while he and his 6th Grade Crew (Bob & Pete) were teaching at Craig Hill and I (6th Grade) at Autumn Lane…….a bunch of other 6th Grade teachers from Brookside,Parkland,& West Ridge started a 6th Grade Softball League that played on Saturdays. We even got the Greece Director of Athletics to buy a trophy that went to the winners of the league each year!
After this, Frank joined with other Greece teachers to play on recreational softball teams: Castle Dragon Power and none bigger than a hastily put together team in 1975 (Gaze Realty) to play in the very first USSSA “Class C” World Championships in Rochester,NY. Frank was an integral part of this team anchoring 1st Base. We shocked ourselves and all of the softball community in Rochester & New York State by winning this inaugural event! We had the honor of being inducted into the NYS Softball Hall of Fame as a “Team of Distinction” in 2019. This was the last time I saw Frank and he was as humble as ever and shook my hand with his huge hands! Take a rest now,Frank, and onto another adventure…..
Dave Thomas, Churchville,NY
Working with Frank and everyone at Athena Middle School in the 90’s (and beyond) truly emulated what a “work family” was. Frank always had his door open for a student, colleague or to lend support on an issue or concern. Always knowledgeable on various topics, Frank had information and/or opinion on any subject and was just a “no-nonsense” kind of guy. He was simply “a pillar” to so many in our community. We were always bigger, better and stronger with Frank at the helm. There was never any doubt about his leadership, care and consideration for others. Frank was always “the voice of reason.”
“We walk by faith, not by sight,” so we must believe that his tasks to serve are ongoing and simply needed elsewhere.
“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.”
(J.M. Barrie)
Always loved and respected.
Godspeed.
God bless his family and the love and memories you will always share.
C.M. Lewis
I’ve been struggling to find the words, some way to express the deep loss I’m feeling, the sorrow I hold in my heart for his family, but the words I know are not adequate for this expression. This is my attempt.
From humility to humor,
integrity to inspiration, dependable to dedication, sensible to silly, conscientious to ( very) caring, and all of the positive words that come in between.
A man of great stature physically and intectually. A leader and model of everything that is good .
Above all, Frank was a man who loved his family with every part of his being. I know they will feel that love forever !
I am honored , and grateful for having had Frank in my life. I’m a better person for it.
He and Bob had a unique friendship. It is comforting to think that they are up there drinking coffee,
sharing memories, and laughing about all of their silly antics.
I will miss Frank greatly.
“Our gentle giant.”
He will forever be in my heart.
I had the privilege of working with Frank at Athena Middle for many years. He was a gifted leader not only in his classroom but in our school and greater district as well. And he did it with a strong dose of thoughtfulness, humility, honed listening skills, and…especially humor. One specific example of his character was witnessed during an interaction he had with a young man who was doing his best job trying to get kicked out of a summer literacy/ math program we were co-teaching in. After several days of antics, Frank asked the young man to step into the hallway for a private conversation. He stooped down at eye level about a foot from the student’s face and calmly said, “I know what you’re trying to do…but we’re not going to let you go.” The stunned student stared back for a few moments, finally mumbled something, went back into the classroom, and successfully completed the six week program without a hitch. That was vintage Frank.
Those of us who knew him are so thankful for the positive impact of his life and friendship on us and the lives he touched. Sincere condolences to Bonnie, Dan, Deana, Courtney, and all of the grandchildren he so greatly loved.
Mr. Connell was a very influential teacher in my life. I was in his sixth grade class at Greece Athena Middle School in 1995-1996. He nominated me for an award at the end of the school year and I was totally surprised and honored by the award. It boosted my self-confidence and I credit him with helping me become a better student. I remember his love of the Titanic (this was before the movie came out). My mom said she would see him occasionally at Wegmans and he’d ask about what I was up to. Sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed. – Kaitlin (McCarthy) Luna
When I started my teaching profession in 1999 at Athena, Frank quickly became a close friend and supporter of me, a first-year teacher. It didn’t take long for Frank to welcome me to Athena, and soon thereafter we would collaborate as classroom teacher and librarian, creating an online research project for students on the then new Internet. The “Wonders of the World Webquest” would end up receiving some awards and accolades, in large part to Frank’s original educational design and concept.
We also shared an interest in Chess, and I was Frank’s assistant coach for Athena’s Chess Club. We took the club on the road, competing in the Rochester Chess league. We took our middle school graders on the road for many matches, and often won against high school teams (finishing first in the league’s standings for several years).
Aside from school, Frank and I shared a passion for cycling, and he soon introduced me to the “Westside” network of backroads that I was new to, having just recently moved to the Rochester area. Frank was an experienced, strong cyclist, and over the years we’d ride hundreds of miles together. I’ll never forget riding our first “long ride” together to Point Breeze – we started from his house in early April one year, battling a seemingly 30 mph headwind. I slipstreamed behind Frank for most of the way that windy day, lol. I credit Frank for getting me enthusiastically back into cycling in the early 2000’s. I don’t know if this would have happened if it weren’t for Frank.
When Frank retired from teaching, I immediately knew then he’d be greatly missed at our school, and I was going to miss him as a colleague. Since his retirement, I’ve done my best to strive to be just a fraction of the great teacher he was – and I don’t think I’ve been successful, because he was such an outstanding teacher. I was fortunate to still catch up with Frank from time to time, we would occasionally meet for breakfast to catch up. And Frank was the kind of friend where you could easily pick up where you left off, despite not seeing each other in person for a while.
My heart goes out to Frank and his family – he has impacted thousands of people’s lives so profoundly positively. Truly an amazing person, a Renaissance man in every sense. My sincere condolences to the Connells.
I am truly saddened by Frank’s passing. I met Frank in Spin class in 2004 and our friendship grew from there. We would ride together and also with groups of people. When I told him I was training for a 600 mile/6 day bike ride to cape cod, our workouts intensified. I was thrilled when Frank decided to ride with me on the 1st 100 mile ride to Ithaca. Bonnie was our sweep wagon behind us all the way to Ithaca. My family with Frank and Bonnie enjoyed a great meal that evening as they were leaving in the morning. What I didn’t know was that Frank followed me in his car the next morning as I began the arduous climb out of Ithaca to ensure I didn’t need help. That spoke volumes to the type of person Frank was. Not only was he an intellectual but compassionate , caring and funny. My sincere condolences to Bonnie and her family.
Milan Katz
Scott Mykins
I’m am very Sad to here of Franks ( Mr. Connell / Always Mr. Connell to me) Passing. My Thoughts
and prayers to his Wife And Family , Frank Was my Fifth and Six Grade teacher At Craig Hill in the late Seventies and was very instrumental with keeping me on the right path of life. I would see him
through out the years at Wegmans and the Long Pond family Restaurant where we set and talk on occasion. the last time I saw him was this Last October At Greece Athena HS where I Started my Second Career. I will always have have those great memories . God Bless
Buddy was a classmate of mine NFA 67. We were teammates on the K of C little league team the Giants. Also both of us were stellar altar servers at Saint Mary’s. Wonderful pictures shared of our families in a previous post. Even my four sons are posted in a Brannigan/, Connell family function. RIP Frank. My sincere condolences to the entire Connell family.
Richard & Janet Brannigan
Mr. Connell was one of the best teachers. I have so many great memories of him. Blessings to family & friends.
Frank was a wonderful teacher who influenced all those who had him as their teacher. He was a wonderful colleague and friend to many. He was a mentor to me when I became Principal at Athena Middle. He will be missed in many ways.
I work with Courtney and was sad to hear of your family’s loss. This is such a beautiful tribute from a caring family. You have my heartfelt condolences and wishes for your comfort.