Frank P. Faniola

Frank P. Faniola, 80, of Bristol, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20, 2019 at Ingraham Manor in Bristol. He leaves behind his loving partner and best friend of 46 years, Susan M. Hilinski.

Frank was born on July 14, 1938 in Bristol, son to the late Nicholas J. and Fay (Broderick) Faniola. He grew up in Bristol, graduating from Saint Anthony Catholic High School and spent the summers at his family cottage on White Sand Beach in Old Lyme. Shortly after graduation, Frank went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged, having earned rank as SP4 E-4. He worked for the State of CT prior to joining his father in the family business, Nicholas Lighting, formerly located in Plainville. Upon his father’s retirement, Frank became the owner and operator of Nicholas Lighting. He went on to work for CT Lighting and worked throughout Hartford, Plainville, and Southington. Frank dedicated his life to working hard to provide for his family.

Frank held a special bond with his grandson, whom he called, “Niko” and was extremely proud of the man he was, supporting him through all of his sport endeavors and attending his graduation from Paris Island, one of the proudest moments one can witness as a grandfather.

Let these words speak for the man Frank was, “My love, my friend, you were my soulmate and my sidekick. Thanks for being by my side. How very blessed I was to have you and your love.” To say he will be missed deeply is an understatement.

In addition to his loving partner, Susan, Frank is survived by his son, Nicholas R. Faniola, of Hawaii, his grandson, Nicholas F. “Niko” Faniola, of Bristol, his brother, John “Jack” Faniola and his wife, Judy, of Old Lyme, his nephew, Jay N. Faniola, of Old Lyme, his niece, Nicole Faniola- Hedden, of Hilton Head, SC, his aunt, Irene Vanderbilt, of Windsor Locks, and many cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas J. Faniola.

Frank’s family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Ingraham Manor and Apple Rehab for their compassion and exceptional care they provided during their time of need.

Funeral services in celebration of Frank’s life will begin on Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 9 AM from Bailey Funeral Home, 48 Broad St., Plainville, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 94 Broad St., Plainville. Burial will follow in Saint Joseph Cemetery, Plainville. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 24, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the funeral home.

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