Francesco A. Montesanti

Gallitzin, PA – Francesco (Frank) A. Montesanti 88, formerly of Dunedin, FL died September 7, 2019. Frank leaves behind his son Pasquale “Pat” and wife Sharon, daughter Vicki , son Francesco, son Gennaro “CJ” and wife Tami; eight grandchildren Pasquale, Andrea,  Tommy, Laura, Elizabeth, Tiana, Giovanni, Michael;  three great grandchildren Giacomo, Lydia, and Sofia; and two brothers Gennaro “Jerry” wife Claire and their children and Pasquale “Pat” wife Ginger and their children.

Born July 7, 1931 in Calabria, Italy, and the eldest of three brothers, Frank immigrated to North Adams, MA as a child with his two brothers and their parents Pasquale and Lucia. After graduating from North Adams High School Frank joined the United States Army where he was recruited to play and tour with the United States Army Band as a trombonist during the Korean War.

Completing his tenure with the Army,  Frank attended and graduated from the New England Conservatory of Music (Class of “59”) in Boston, MA were he met his wife of nearly 60 years Joanne Bongiorno of Altoona, Pa (deceased) also a graduate of the Conservatory. Frank and Joanne married while attending school and, to support his new family, Frank became a professional trombonist and member of the Local Musicians Union 9, in Boston , MA.  He performed with the Danny Kay Orchestra at the Shubert Theater, The Colonial Theater, and played with the Boston Arts Festival Orchestra.  After graduation he spent 29 years of his professional life appreciatively known as “Mr. M” and worked with elementary and high school students as a Music Teacher, Band Director and Director of Music. His first job was with the Norton Public School System, Norton, MA in 1960 and his last was with the Westport School District, Westport, MA in 1989. After retiring,  Frank and Joanne moved to Dunedin, Fl were they spent the rest of their days loving and caring for their grandchildren, making pizza, providing private music lessons, playing golf, and taking an active role in developing the choral and music programs for the local Roman Catholic Church.

Frank spent his last days in the comforting home of his daughter and entered into eternal peace with his loving daughter and Granddaughter Andrea by his side. His wit, charm, and constant smile will be sadly missed. He was truly one of a kind.

A committal Service will be held in Florida at the convenience of the family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Francesco A. Montesanti, please visit our floral store.