Frank Fiaschetti

Frank John Fiaschetti was born June 9, 1915, in Utica, N.Y. He attended Rome Free Academy and subsequently Syracuse University, where graduated valedictorian. After teaching photography at Binghamton North High School, he attended the University of Pennsylvania Dental School where he was also valedictorian.

Dad was well known for being one of the first periodontists in the United States and frequently lectured internationally. He married Josephine Caselle and settled in Binghamton, N.Y., where he practiced for 30 years. His patients came from all over the globe. He served as the chairman of the Broome County Community College Dental Hygienist School, as well as several state and national positions in his field of expertise.

Dr. Fiaschetti served in the Army in the Second World War and as captain in the Air Force during the Korean War. He was stationed on Johnston Island in the Pacific and facilitated the troops' communication with his ham radio.

His hobbies include ham radio operation, golf, skiing and fly-fishing. He hung up his skis at 83 and his golf clubs at 86 years old, but continued to be a regular at the Sun Valley Athletic Club. His investment expertise was punctuated by achieving a financial advisor certificate at 72 years old.

Of the many wonderful characteristics that he demonstrated, the most defining was his devoted love and care to his family, especially his eldest son Michael, who was in coma for 14 years. Dad made friends wherever he was. He was greatly loved by many in Binghamton, in Palos Verdes, Calif., where he and Josephine lived after he retired, and the Wood River Valley for the remaining years. While in the Wood River Valley, he participated in the VFW and became well known to all at the Bank of America, Despo's and Our Lady of the Snows Church. A new interest in architecture was demonstrated when he attempted to remodel the cornerstone at the BOA building with his Jeep.

We will miss his love, humor and generosity, but know that others will soon enjoy him.

He is survived by his son, Frank L.; daughter in law, Claudia; and grandchildren Frank II, Colleen and Catherine. He was preceded in death by his wife, Josephine, son Michael, and brothers, Rocco and Louis.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Croy Canyon Ranch Foundation, the future continuing care facility for seniors.

Services will be held at Our Lady of the Snows Church in Sun Valley on Friday, Aug. 19, at 2 p.m., followed by an open house at the home of Frank and Claudia Fiaschetti. All are welcome.