Francis "Frank" I. Esposito

Francis “Frank” I. Esposito passed away peacefully on Tuesday at the age of 91, although as Frank would tell you, he was still “39 between the ears.”

Frank was born on November 5, 1934, to Dominic Esposito and Josephine (Jackonski) Esposito in Syracuse. He attended St. John the Evangelist High School in Syracuse, where he met Marie E. Herscha in chemistry class and fell hopelessly in love. Their first date was at Heid’s for hot dogs, and thus began a wonderful life together. These high school sweethearts married in 1953 and shared 57 joyful years together before Frank’s forever bride passed away in 2011.

Frank worked as a serviceman for Niagara Mohawk (“NiMo”) for 37 years, where he formed lifelong friendships. During his time at Niagara Mohawk, Frank became an IBEW Union steward and eventually union president. He was highly regarded at NiMo and in union circles for his strong work ethic, fairness, generosity, consideration, and humor.

For many years, Frank coached Little League baseball for the Camillus Optimist Club. Throughout his life, he heard from families and players who remembered him with fondness and gratitude. Frank was also a member of the Camillus Elks Lodge and a devoted member of St. Joseph’s Church in Camillus, supporting the food bank and forming close friendships with fellow parishioners.

The most important part of Frank’s life was his family. Although an only child, Frank had dozens of aunts, uncles, cousins, and second cousins with whom he remained close.

A self-proclaimed grumpy old man, anyone who spent time with Frank knew his true nature—a man who learned your name and made you laugh, unexpectedly brought you donuts or bread from Columbus Bakery, invited you in to share a meal, celebrated your accomplishments, supported your dreams, and shared his love unconditionally with grace and kindness. He is truly unforgettable.

Francis was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marie, whom he loved deeply all his life, and after her passing, he slept each night with her high school graduation photo resting on the pillow beside him.

Surviving are his children who he loved and supported throughout his life, Mike (Karen), Marie Esposito, Stephen, and Christopher (Robin); and five grandchildren, of whom he was so proud of.

To celebrate Francis’ life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

Francis will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, DeWitt.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Church Food Pantry, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.