FRANK J. FANOVICH Jr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Frank J. Fanovich, Jr., 88, on August 27, 2011 with his family by his side. A gathering of friends will be held from 2-4 and 6-8PM, Wednesday at the Baldwin Brothers Heritage Place, 1 N. Causeway, New Smyrna Beach. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, September 1, 2011 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with entombment to follow at Sea Pines Memorial Gardens. Frank was born on January 11, 1923 in Bronx, NY to Frank and Mary Fanovich. He is survived by his devoted wife, Yolanda "Gloria" of 65 years; brother, Ralph Fanovich; sister, Anne Flannery, loving nieces, nephews and many great nieces and great nephews. Frank was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, John and Thomas Fanovich. Frank proudly served his country for three years, in the Army Air Force in the ETO during World War II and was stationed in England. Upon completion of his military service Frank returned home and married his childhood sweetheart, Yolanda on February 2, 1946. Frank had a passion for baseball which began while playing sandlot baseball as a youth. Frank's professional baseball career began when he was discovered by a former major league baseball player who recognized his potential which brought him to the New York Giants who then signed him as a free agent in 1946. Frank was 27 when he broke into the major leagues on April 25, 1946 pitching for the Cincinnati Reds. "Lefty", as he was also known, also played for the Philadelphia A's and the Baltimore Orioles. After baseball Frank had a 27 year career with the NYPD where he became one of the "Big Apple's" finest as a member of the Manhattan North Narcotics Division. Upon Frank and Yolanda's retirement they relocated to New Smyrna Beach. Frank loved good food, old movies, golfing and the New York Yankees. He had an overwhelming compassion for animals, having adopted many strays. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the excellent care and compassion shown to Frank and his family by the team at Halifax Health Hospice of Volusia/Flagler. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Hospice, 4140 S. Ridgewood Avenue, Edgewater, FL 32141. To share a memory with the family visit www.BaldwinCremation.com.