JOSEPH F. "FRANK" FOLDING

1933 - 2021

FOLDING, Joseph F. "Frank" Age 88, Lt. Col. (ret.) US Army, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 8, 2021, with his family and loving wife Nancy (Yuu) Folding by his side. Frank was born in Blackstone, MA, the son of the late Joseph A. and Nelida (Jolin) Folding. He received a BS degree at Mass College of Pharmacy and a Master's degree in Healthcare Administration from Baylor University. A proud retired Lt. Colonel with 22 years of service, he received the Bronze Star and many medals and commendations. Following his military career, he served in hospital administration at Mass General Hospital, Boston, and later, as Purchasing Manager at the Wellman Company of Tewksbury. Frank enjoyed fishing, sailing, gardening and especially travel, a passion born by his military postings overseas. His most beloved military project was working with local officials and diplomats in a joint effort to rebuild one of Berlin's old hospitals into an innovative care facility with a focus on serving all who came through its doors, whether patient or staff. He was a compassionate listener filled with good humor and grace. An avid believer in humanity and an early supporter of women's equality, he was always able to recognize the best in people. Frank was unfailingly polite, respectful, and caring - a true gentleman in both spirit and character. He leaves his wife, Nancy (Yuu) Folding of Lynn, daughter Christine Folding and her wife Dianne Coleman, 2 grandchildren, Alex B. Anthony and Henry Iradj and their father Ahmad Iradj, all of Long Beach, CA. In addition to Christine, he shared two other children with former wife Gisela Folding, son Steve Folding and daughter Susan Folding, both deceased. Surviving siblings are sister Pat Ryan (Bill) of Blackstone, MA and brothers Larry Folding (Aline) of Harwich, MA and Steve Folding (Kathy), of Blackstone, MA. He leaves many loving nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends. A heartfelt thank you to his care teams, especially his neighbors. Visiting Hours: A Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 12, 2021, from 2:00-4:00 PM at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home at the 82 Lynn St., PEABODY facility with brief remarks starting at 3:15. At the family's request, please wear a mask. A Graveside Service with military honors will be held on October 9th at Pine Grove Cemetery, Boston St., Lynn at 12 noon. Please meet at Boston St. Gate at 11:45 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Frank's name to the McAuley Nazareth Home for Boys, 433 Mulberry St., Leicester, MA 01524 or to the MGH Development Office/IMA, 135 Nashua St., Boston, MA 02124. For guestbook and directions, visit www.ccbfuneral.com

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