Dr. Frank C. Devane

Devane, Dr. Frank C., DDS BURDEN LAKE After a long and courageous battle, Dr. Frank C. Devane, DDS, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2009 surrounded by his loving family. Frank is survived by his wife, Mary A. (Reilly) Devane; two brothers; a sister; five children, seven grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. To have met Frank was all that was required to have liked him. His casual demeanor, steady optimism and good humor made him the kind of easy-going person that brought a smile to your face whenever you saw him. Frank touched and improved the lives of all those he met through his kindness, generosity, patience and understanding. The center of a large and loving family, Frank enjoyed the constant flow of all who stopped by the house for a casual conversation, some timely advice, a dip in the lake or a seat at the Sunday dinner table. A recent trip to Ireland with his wife, children and grandchildren was the highlight of a marriage that spanned over 50 years. An avid outdoorsman, even into his seventies, Frank enjoyed hunting, and especially fishing. To see Frank cruising around the lake in his Whaler, whether alone or with his grandkids, was to watch a man at peace with his life. Having caught what he deemed to be his fair share of fish from countless lakes and rivers, Papa, as he was known to his grandchildren, graciously accepted his new role in angling: that of worm skewer, hook remover and line untangler. His hunting of late had diminished to an occasional (but always successful) trip to the Adirondacks to hunt along Mahogany Ridge with the boys from the Ward Pond Club, of which he was a longstanding member. Frank's interests in sports included golfing, the Yankees, the Giants, his beloved Irish and the many youth sports played by his grandkids. A VI football man from his high school days, Frank retained his competitive spirit, most particularly on the golf course, where he played in several leagues and tournaments throughout the year. The lives of those he touched will be saddened by the loss of a kind heart, a loyal friend and a good man. Funeral service will be held Friday at 10 a.m at St. Henry's Church, Old Route 66, Averill Park where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. John Provost, pastor, officiating. Relatives and friends may call at the Church on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. Interment will be in St. Henry's Cemetery, Averill Park. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a gift to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Frank's name at www.dana-farber.org/how/gifts. The family would like to encourage all who are able to donate blood as often as they can. It is truly the gift of life and Frank was able to fight his illness because of the generosity of blood donors. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit www.brycefh.com