Frank W. Gargano

It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of

Frank William Gargano – a devoted husband, beloved father and grandfather, devout Catholic, loyal friend, and proud former officer in the United States Marine Corps.

Frank W. Gargano, 91, of Lavallette, NJ passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he lived in North Caldwell, NJ for 55 years and summered in Lavallette, NJ for 40 years before moving there permanently 3 years ago.

Frank graduated from Hofstra University, receiving his bachelor's degree in business.

A man of unwavering integrity and boundless generosity, Frank lived a life marked by purpose, discipline, and joy. His discipline began at an early age while working on his family's ice truck delivering ice before school. From this experience, he grew mental and physical strength as well as uncompromising work ethic. He still managed to savor every detail of life and often would be heard saying the motto of his life: "This is no dress rehearsal!"

An avid runner and fitness fanatic, Frank ran dozens of marathons, marking his fastest time at 3:19 in the Marine Corps Marathon at age 45. Frank went from running to biking, hiking, practicing yoga, and then golfing. Across the globe, Frank and his wife Cecilia marked countless miles of fitness travel. Together, they share a passion for adventure, traveling the world on bicycles and fitness journeys that became legendary among friends and family.

His service as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps shaped not only his character but laid the foundation for a lifetime of success in business. He often said his Marine training instilled the perseverance and leadership that carried him through every challenge.

Frank was an astute businessman, and he took risks when others hesitated. He co-founded with his partner, Frank Alvino, Healthscan Inc., a medical marketing company which became a successful enterprise. This ultimately sparked a flame in countless other individuals to pursue their own paths as Frank acted as mentor, guide and friend.

Above all things, Frank was most proud of and cherished his family. He was married to and survived by the love of his life, Cecilia Gargano (née, Chimenti) for 64 beautiful years. Their devotion to each other was a beacon of love and partnership.

He was the proud father of three children – Anthony Gargano and his wife Marisa of Brewster, NY, Michele Stoneham and her husband John of Holmdel, NJ, Renee Sbrocco and her husband Frank of Lusby, MD; his grandchildren – Lia Ehrlich, her husband Kyle and expectant baby girl Emilia, Julia Grabowski and her husband Tyler, Olivia Santerre, her husband Luke and their new baby Josephine, Matthew Gargano and his fiancée Paige Galiani, Nicolas Sbrocco, and Michael Stoneham. Also survived by his brother Angelo Gargano and his wife Linda of CT as well as countless in-law family, nieces and nephews who he adored. As a father, grandfather and recently great grandfather, Frank was a constant source of wisdom, strength and boundless affection. Inspired by Frank's passion for service and leadership, his children and grandchildren followed his footsteps in service to their community and country as medical professionals, lawyers, teachers, business leaders and Officers in the US Navy and Marine Corps.

Frank Gargano was the kind of person whose presence filled a room. He had a take charge spirit, the kind of leadership that was quiet yet commanding, unwavering and deeply felt. He didn't just guide his family and friends, he inspired us, challenged us and made us simply better by the way he lived his own life. Those who knew Frank will remember his kindness, his wisdom, his infectious laugh, and the way he made everyone feel seen and valued. He was a man who gave fully from his heart, from his time, and from his love.

Frank's life was a blessing, his memory a treasure. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Tuesday, July 29, 2025 11:00am at Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church, 359 Central Ave, North Caldwell, NJ 07006.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his memory to: Marine Corps League #206 P.O. Box 206,, East Hanover, NJ. 07936 OR Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation at https://www.mcsf.org