Francesco "Frank" DiDonato Sr.

Francesco "Frank" DiDonato, Sr., 90, of Portland, Maine, passed away at his home on August 14, 2025. Born on July 2, 1935, in Portland to Santo and Elisa DiDonato, Frank grew up in the city he loved. He attended Portland High School before proudly serving in the National Guard, where he achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and served for 31 years. While serving, he worked for A.L. Doria Masonry before founding his own business, F. DiDonato & Sons Mason Contractors, in 1969. Through his craftsmanship and dedication, Frank built not only homes and buildings, but also a lasting reputation in his community. He created beautiful stone and brick fireplaces and more, and he proudly passed on the art and craftsmanship of masonry to his sons. In 1963, Frank married the love of his life, Adrienne. Together they created a beautiful life filled with family, love, and tradition. A tireless worker, Frank continued his trade right up until his passing. Outside of work, he was always on the move-whether tending to projects around the house, camp, or in his abundant garden. He found joy in fishing, hunting, and spending time with those he loved most. Frank was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Family was his greatest pride and joy, and his happiest moments were those spent together at the lake or at home. Frank is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Adrienne; his children, Walter Kelley and his wife Kimberly, Sabrina Casale and her husband Denny, Francesco DiDonato, Jr. and his wife Cheryl, Santo DiDonato and his wife Gina, and Vincent DiDonato and his wife Wanda, and Elissa Cote; 12 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Rosina Millett. He was predeceased by his son, David DiDonato; daughters, Stephanie Robinson and Mona Kelly; brothers, Rocco, Joseph, and Antonio; and sister, Santerella. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at A.T. Hutchins Funeral Home, 660 Brighton Avenue, Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 72 Federal Street, Portland. Frank's hardworking spirit, generosity, and devotion to family will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.