Woodbury- Frank C. Cesare, PhD, also lovingly known as Doc, Grandpa & FraFra, 94, passed away peacefully after a short illness in St. Mary's Hospital on April 15, 2025. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many.

Frank was born on May 29,1930, in Albany, NY to the late Giacomo and Concetta Cesare. Frank always had a curious mind, achieving much in his life through his extensive education. He earned his B.S. in Chemistry at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, followed by a Masters from the University of Rochester, and his PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Maryland College Park. His post-doctoral work included fellowships in research with Cerebral Palsy, Naval Research, and at the NIH. Frank was employed from 1959 -1998 at Uniroyal, formerly US Rubber, as a research chemist eventually retiring as the manager of Research and Development. Over his 39 year career he was awarded 13 patents, and served as an active member of many academic and professional organizations.

Frank will be remembered not only for his professional success, but for his fun-loving, friendly nature, generosity, and his passion for golf. He and the love of his life, Loretta, often enjoyed dancing, time with friends, and traveling; their favorite places being Europe, California, Newport, RI, Hawaii, Bermuda, Aruba, and Alaska. The last trip taken was a family cruise to the Caribbean to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Regardless of all of his personal and professional accomplishments, he was most proud of all that his children and grandchildren have achieved.

Frank leaves behind his six children, Jon (Celina) of Terryville, Lisa (Frank) of Southbury, Elaine (Bill) of Reading, MA, Marc (Heidi) of Brooklyn, NY, Carla of Cincinnati, OH and Marisa (Pete) of Oakville.  He is also survived by his grandchildren Thomas, Dennis (Rob), Kevin, Sandra, Stephen, Cameron (Andie), Emma, Tessa, Bridget, and Harlan. Frank is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Chuck Agro as well as his cousin, Stella Bonina. He is also leaving behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and special friends. Frank was predeceased by his wife of 53 plus years, Loretta, and his brothers, Francesco and Joseph.

Family and friends may gather on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 8:30 am until 10:00 am at Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School Street, Woodbury, CT 06798. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am at St. Teresa of Avila, 146 Main St S, Woodbury, CT 06798. A burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Watertown, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Carolyn's Place, Inc., 137 Grandview Ave, Waterbury CT 06708, or Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury, Inc., PO Box 1503, 29 Central Ave, Waterbury, CT 06721. To leave an online condolence, please visit munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.