Obituary of Francis M. “Frank” Kianese

Francis M. Frank Kianese, age 75, died on October 28, 2003 at Somerset Medical Center in Somerville. He was the devoted husband for 49 years to Bernice (Bock) Kianese. Loving father of Linda Pelin and her husband John of Brockport, NY, and Diane Romeo and her husband Dominic of Flemington. Beloved grandfather of four: John Francis, Scott, Nicole and Michael. He also leaves behind a brother, Albert Kianese of Monroeville, PA; a sister, Mary Jane Stolerek of Liberty Borough, PA, a brother-in-law, Rollis Bock of FL; and many nieces and nephews. He was a compassionate and loyal friend. Frank was born in Pittsburgh, PA and was an avid fan of the Steelers and Pirates. He graduated from McKeesport High School and graduated with a BS from Duquense University in Pittsburgh, PA. He received two Masters Degrees from Columbia University, one in Foreign Language and the other in Educational Administration. In 1953, he began his teaching career at Leonardo High School in Middleton Twp., NJ and in 1954 he continued his career at North Plainfield High School as a Spanish and English teacher. He then became Supervisor of the Foreign Language Department. In 1974 he became the Assistant Principal at North Plainfield High School, retiring in December 1989. He was honored by the North Plainfield Alumni Association by being inducted into the North Plainfield Hall of Fame. He was a long-standing member of the North Plainfield High Schools faculty as an Assistant Principal. He was known for his understanding and compassion towards the students and faculty. He encouraged the value of scholastic achievement and, along with his fellow educators, provided his students with an environment that would help them to achieve their full potential. His favorite saying when things got hectic: Im going to sit under a palm tree. Frank was proud to be a veteran, serving his country during the Korean War. He loved to travel and take his family on cruises to celebrate happy occasions together. His favorite games were blackjack in Atlantic City, chess, which he taught to his grandchildren, and bridge, which he partnered with his wife. Visitation will be on Friday, October 31st from 4 to 7 p.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals, 461 Somerset Street, North Plainfield, NJ 07060. A Funeral Service will be on Saturday, November 1st at 9:30 am at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made payable to: The Thalessemia Center, c/o Higgins Home for Funerals, in his memory would be appreciated.