Obituary published on Legacy.com by Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial on Dec. 12, 2025.
Frank Marino, 97, of
Newington, CT, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025. Frank was born on August 22, 1928, in Coney Island, NY, to the late Anthony and Michelina Marino.
Frank proudly served in the United States Navy for 20 years, a period of his life that shaped his strong character, discipline, and devotion to service. After leaving the Navy, he continued his commitment to hard work as an employee of the MTA Bridges and Tunnels in New York City, where his job required climbing tall bridges. This fearless work stayed with him throughout his life-he had no hesitation being up on the roof even at 80 years old.
Even after retiring, Frank wasn't one to sit still. He continued working part-time after moving to Florida, always believing and teaching his family that hard work pays off.
Frank was endlessly proud of his family. He is survived by his children Phyllis, Anne, Frances, Frank Jr., Lori, and Jody; his grandchildren Joey, Kate, Nora, and Alyssa; as well as many great-grandchildren. Later in life, Frank married the late Ruth Marino, with whom he shared 27 happy years of marriage. Frank loved Ruth's children as his own, which came as no surprise-family was everything to him. He leaves behind his step-children Jennifer Burkey (Mike) and Thomas Murphy (Germaine), and his step-grandchildren Eric, Scott (Sara), Marianne, and Bryan (Cristina), along with their children.
Throughout his long life, Frank held many titles, but the one he cherished most was being "Papa." He was especially proud of his great-grandchildren Lily and Ben, with whom he loved spending time and creating lasting memories.
Frank was a very talented wood carver who enjoyed carving birds and painting them. Although everyone admired his birds,
Frank always found some small flaw-humble and meticulous to the end. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and walking in nature. His fishing adventures with his grandson Bryan often ended with Frank accidentally going for a swim in the river, a story the family treasures. Frank was a kindhearted man, always willing to lend a helping hand.
One of Frank's absolute favorite things to do was take a ride to the casino with his beloved Ruth, where they shared many joyful outings together.
The family would like to thank Jefferson House in
Newington, CT, for their compassionate care during Frank's stay. They are deeply grateful to the staff for their kindness and support.
Burial will be private at Connecticut Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.
To share a memory with his family please visit us at www.duksa.net.
Frank was a man of few words, and he ended his conversations the same way every time. So, in the words of Frank: "That's all I got."
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank, please visit our floral store.