Francesco “Frank” DiPino

Francesco “Frank” DiPino, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on February 20, 2026, at the age of 103.

Frank dedicated his life to providing for his family, who describe him as their “hero.” A rock steady dad whom his children could always count on, he was patient, supportive, and calm. He always had a smile, a twinkle in his eye, and a humorous wisecrack. His favorite line was “smile and the world smiles with you, cry and you cry alone.”

He built two houses for his family, a year-round home in Cicero, and a beach house on Lake Ontario. “Camp” became a three-generation summer paradise for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed boating, waterskiing, hunting, fishing, bowling and he shared all of these joys with each subsequent generation. However, when the boat, go-cart, snowmobile, or car broke down, he was then truly in his element. If anything needed fixing, everyone knew who to call.

Frank was preceded in death by Theresa, his beautiful wife of fifty-six years, daughter Phyllis DiSalvo, brother Anthony (Tony) DiPino, sister Sarah Guinto, step-brother Mike Georgianna, and step-sister Angeline Shelburn. He is survived by his daughter Angela Rice and son-in-law Frank Rice, daughter Francine Zangari and son-in-law David P. Zangari, son Frank DiPino Jr., Kathleen Walsh DiPino, and Joe DiSalvo, husband of Phyllis. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Jamie Greer, Jesse Greer, Anthony Zangari, David Zangari, Joshua Rice, Andrea Morapinilla, Joseph DiSalvo, Alexandra LaRose, and Angelina DiPino; and his great grandchildren, Sienna Greer, Zane Greer, Sophia Morapinilla, Gracie Zangari, and Kira DiSalvo.

Frank was a WWII Navy veteran who proudly served as a Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class aboard the submarine tender, the USS Fulton, in the Pacific Theater from 1941 to 1945. After returning home he went into business with his brother Tony and co-founded DiPino’s Towing and Service. Later, he started DiPino’s Aluminum, specializing in aluminum siding, door window installations and porch enclosures. He then worked in refrigeration and appliance service with Westinghouse. Even after he “retired” he never slowed down, and continued repairing and selling appliances until he was 101 years old. Frank believed that he was never too old to learn something new; he carried that mindset with him his entire life.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and devotion that will continue to guide his family for generations. He will be deeply missed every day.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Honor Flight Syracuse. Click here to donate.

On Monday, March 2, 2026, a mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 8229 Brewerton Rd, Cicero, NY 13039, at 9:30 am, followed by a burial at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery, 8668 County RT 57, Baldwinsville, NY 13027, at 11:30 am.

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