Frank B. Wilson

Frank B. Wilson, age 78, of Manchester, peacefully passed away on Thursday morning, June 27, 2013, surrounded by his family. Frank was predeceased earlier this year by his beloved wife of 52 years, Pauline T. Wilson.

He is survived by his four children, Judith Haile of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Karen Wilson of Vernon; Kenneth Wilson and his wife, Julie, of Broad Brook; and Sandra Gardner of Glastonbury; six grandchildren, Elizabeth (Haile) Bell and her husband, Curtis; Rebecca Haile; Ethan Haile; Christina Haile; Jacob Gardner; and Zachary Gardner; his sister, Elizabeth Schubert of Temple, N.H.; and several dear nieces and nephews. Frank was predeceased by his brother, Everett James (Jim) Wilson, of Temple, N.H.

Frank was born on July 23, 1934, in Newport, R.I., son of Everett James Wilson Sr. and Sarah (Bucknam) Wilson. He graduated from Norwich University in 1956 and then proudly served his country for nine years as a tank commander in the U.S. Army, with tours in Korea and Europe. He then settled in Manchester in 1965, where he was an active Communicant of St. Bartholomew Church and a Knights of Columbus officer. Frank was employed at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft in East Hartford as a purchasing specialist for 27 years. Upon retirement he pursued his lifelong passion with cards, spending five years as a Black Jack dealer with Foxwoods Casino. Though Contract Bridge was his game of choice, family and friends will never forget his enthusiasm for any card game. Serious or fun, he always played to win. Even now he can be heard saying, "Come on, let's play!" Although cards brought a smile to his face, nothing was more important to him than his wife, Pauline, whom he cherished above all else, and his family that he provided so well for. Frank was a 21-year prostate cancer survivor, and the family could not be more proud of him. The family wishes to thank the many friends who supported Frank during his illness through their prayers and visits.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2013, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Holmes Funeral Home, 400 Main St., Manchester.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on July 3, 2013, at 11 a.m. at St. Bartholomew Church, 45 Ludlow Road, Manchester, followed by burial in St. James Cemetery, Manchester.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Frank and Pauline's favorite charity, St Agnes Home at 104 Mayflower St., West Hartford, CT 06110 or online at

www.stagneshome.org

To leave an online condolence please visit

www.holmeswatkinsfuneralhomes.com