Sept. 29, 1924 - May 18, 2012

ELKHART — Frank C. Bonfiglio, 87, of Elkhart, passed away Friday, May 18, 2012 at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart. He was born Sept. 29, 1924, in Elkhart.

His parents Paul and Julia, along with his three sisters, Carolyn Allbaugh, Margaret Constantino and Esther Bonfiglio, preceded him in death. He was married to Jean Andre from 1947 to 1963 and had three children: son Daniel K. Bonfiglio of Danville, Ill., and daughters Julie (Bert) Galbreth and Lori (Bob) Davis of Elkhart. He has seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren surviving as well.

Frank was a 1942 graduate of Elkhart High School. He faithfully served his country in the United States Army, serving in Italy during World War II. He was a medic with the Medical Battalion of the 88th "Blue Devils" Division and was awarded three Bronze Stars.

Frank worked in many capacities. He started out working in his parent's store, "South Side Sweets." From 1955 until 1963 he was the owner and operator of Franky's Restaurant. He then worked at Taylor Products and served as a union steward. For nearly 20 years, he worked as a bartender at Falcone's Restaurant. After retiring, not one to be idle, he worked at Continental Liquor Store as a bookkeeper, KeyBank as a courier and at Meijer in the bakery.

Frank never knew a stranger and enjoyed talking to people. He made many lasting friendships. The grandkids always commented that no matter where Grandpa went he always knew someone. His greatest pastime was going to the YMCA Health Club to workout, walk and play a mean game of racquetball. Later, he enjoyed documenting meters on the rowing machine. He took great pride in staying healthy. Frank was an avid Cubs fan. He spent many Wednesdays and Sundays driving to Chicago, watching the Cubbies and attending events with the players and coaches. He now has a brick with his name on it at Wrigley Field, a gift from his daughters. He was a Notre Dame Football season ticket holder since the 1950s. He was competitive playing sports, watching sporting events and seeing his grandkids excel in their sport. He knew how to have a good time and enjoy life. Frank loved his family dearly and would let them know it by saying "love you" every time he saw them.

Frank is at peace with the Lord and now can joyfully be reunited with his family and buddies who have gone on before him. He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Elkhart, and Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Mishawaka and was a former member of the Elkhart Moose Lodge 599.

Friends may visit with the family beginning two hours prior to the 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 23, Mass of Christian Burial at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 4508 Vistula Road in Mishawaka. Father Daniel Scheidt will officiate. In keeping with Frank's wishes, cremation has taken place, burial will follow at St. Vincent Cemetery with military honors by the U.S. Army Burial Honor Guard and DAV Chapter 19. Memorials may be made to the Elkhart YMCA, Queen of Peace Catholic Church or the charity of one's choice.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Billings Funeral Home, where condolences may reach the family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.

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