Frank J. Gelsomini

Frank J. Gelsomini went to meet Our Lord on July 14, 2025, at his daughter Debbie Sargent’s residence in Gardner, MA surrounded by his loving family. Frank was born in Wakefield, MA on February 7, 1928, to Elpidio and Filomena (Annie) Gelsomini. Frank leaves behind his two children: Debbie Sargent and her husband Dan, and John Gelsomini and his wife Kim. Debbie, Dan, John and Kim were his loving caregivers at their homes for the past four years. Frank also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Jackie O’Dowd and her husband Sean, and Maria, Johnny and his partner Tina Trenholm, Tina and her husband Jordano Aguzzi, Lisa and her wife Kara Zona, Michael, Joseph, Teresa and Mark Gelsomini, as well as his 3 great grandchildren: Liam and Bree O’Dowd, and Adelaide Gelsomini.

Frank was predeceased by his wife Gloria, his parents Elpidio and Annie Gelsomini, his brother Joseph and his sister Mayre Schwartz.

Frank graduated from Gardner High School in 1946 and from Becker Junior College in 1950. Frank and Gloria were married on July 24, 1950. They were happily married for over 70 years and spent many of those years living in Gardner, MA. After retirement they lived in Hampton, NH and Lake Wales, FL. They enjoyed being snowbirds. Frank and Gloria loved to travel all over the world, often with friends. Over the years Frank enjoyed skiing and playing tennis and golf with his close friends. He had a sharp mind and loved doing the crossword puzzle every morning.

Frank had a great love of music. On holidays and special occasions his family and friends gathered around him to sing as he played the piano. Frank played the banjo for the Tower Lakes Rhythm Band in Lake Wales, FL. The band brought joy as they entertained at many local retirement communities and nursing homes. Frank and Gloria also performed together in many plays and shows over the years.

Frank was a sergeant in the US Army and was stationed in Italy During WWII. When Frank returned from his service overseas, he couldn't wait to see his beloved Gloria. They were married shortly after. Frank then worked for many years at Thayer Inc. and the Charlton Company. The highlight of Frank's career was becoming owner and President of Kelly Bros., Inc. in Gardner, MA. Just before Frank’s retirement, he worked at the Gardner and Concord, MA correctional facilities.

Over the years he was involved in many community services. He was Executive Director of the Gardner Chamber of Commerce and was in the Rotary club. He was past secretary of the Gardner Exchange Club and was Incorporator of Heywood Hospital. He was also a member of the American Legion and the VFW. Frank had that rare ability to get along with people from all walks of life. He was a natural conversationalist and enriched the lives of everyone around him. He will be sadly missed by his many friends and family. Most importantly of all, Frank deeply loved his family and put them above all else. Frank's family will forever carry him in their hearts and will always remember his humor, kindness, hard work to provide for them, and his unfailing love for them all.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 24th, 2025 at Mack Funeral home on 105 Central Street in Gardner, MA from 9:00 to 10:15 am. A funeral Mass will follow at the Holy Spirit church in South Gardner at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at St. John's Cemetery in Gardner.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to all family and friends for their love and condolences during this sad time. The family also wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff of Samaritan Homecare and Beacon Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion. In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan Homecare at 1890 Lakeview Ave, Dracut, MA or Beacon Hospice of Leominster, MA. Please reference in memory of Frank Gelsomini.