Obituary: Frank H. Grabek, Jr., 72, of Middletown

From Biega Funeral Home

Frank H. Grabek, Jr., 72, of Middletown, beloved husband of Joanne (Vitale) Grabek, died Monday December 5, 2016 after a brief illness Hartford Hospital. He was born on July 27, 1944 in Middletown, son of the late Frank H. Grabek, Sr. and Anna (Lee) Grabek.

He attended St. Mary School through 8th grade and graduated from Middletown High School class of 1962. Frank attended and graduated from Morse Business School in Hartford and Middlesex Community College. He worked as a computer programmer in the 70’s and left to enjoy travel. Later he had various jobs and ended his work career at Whiting Forensic Institute in food service. Frank was a veteran of the Vietnam War and served in the Army Security Agency in Japan and Hawaii.

Frank was an avid photographer and took vivid photographs of his many travels with his wife Joanne. They took many trips to Europe both Western and Eastern and photographs were always part of the joy from their travels. He especially loved Venice, Florence, Moscow, Norway, Krakow, the little towns in Germany and the small cafés in European cities. He loved it all.

Frank also loved the Lake District in England, London, Scotland and Ireland. He loved the cozy pubs of Britain and single malt scotch and the bars of Ireland and a pint of stout. Frank was planning another trip for the spring of 2017 with his wife to Britain and Ireland and was happy with the new direct flight from Bradley to Dublin.

He had a keen intelligence and wit yet was humble. He was often encouraged by many to display his photographs though he opted to display them at home. He also had a great sense of humor often making people take a second look and then laughter ensued. Frank was a gentle soul and if he saw an insect he would place it outside. He loved animals, the environment, nature and always had animals at home and really loved his little kitty Josette (Little Girl) who lived to age 17.

Frank is survived by his wife, Joanne who he shared life with for 40 years as well as his cats Autumn (Mama), Zazu (Pitts) and Mandu who he aptly named. He is also survived by his dear uncle Vincent Lee of Middletown, many loving cousins, a brother and sister-in-law, Thomas Vitale and his wife Regina of Plymouth, a niece and nephew and friends who adored him. He was predeceased by his brother, Dennis Grabek.

Frank’s family would like to give special thanks to the Hartford Hospital ICU medical and nursing staff and to special friends who provided support.

A Funeral Liturgy will be held Monday December 12, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Saint Mary of Czestochowa Church, Middletown. Friends may call prior to the service from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Biega Funeral Home 3 Silver Street, Middletown. Burial with military honors will be held in State Veterans’ Cemetery, Middletown. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to an animal organization of the donor’s choice.

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