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Francesco A. Ragona

FUNERAL HOME

Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Homes-New Hyde Park

125 Hillside Avenue

New Hyde Park, New York

Francesco Ragona Obituary

RAGONA - Francesco A., of Elmont, LI, on November 18, 2009. A proud and active member of the Elmont community. Loving husband of Rosalie (nee Calamusa). Adored father of Matthew and Francesca. Beloved brother of Rosario and his wife Susan and Philip and his wife Josette. Dear son of the late Tony and Sally Ragona. Fond brother-in-law of Angela, Carol and her husband Vincent and Anthony and his wife Susan. Caring son-in-law of Frank and Connie. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Saturday and Sunday 2-5 and 7-9:30pm at Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Home, 125 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park (at City-line). Mass of Christian Burial Monday 9:30am St. Vincent de Paul R.C. Church, Elmont. Interment Holy Rood Cemetery, Westbury.

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Published by Newsday on Nov. 20, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Francesco Ragona

57 Entries

Michelle

April 20, 2010

Frank was a beautiful person. Kind, loving, funny, and someone you'd love being around. It still is a shock to me that he's gone, but I know he will continue to be positive and do many kind things on the other side. We will meet again. Until then, may your memory live on. Rest in peace.

November 30, 2009

I had the pleasure of Meeting Frank through his wife Roe. Roe and I worked together for about 2 1/2 years. We quickly became very good friends and shortly after, I was introduced to her Husband Frank and children Frankie and Matthew. This family is all about making you feel like you are part of their own.
I will never forget how funny, friendly and giving Frank was. He was such a family oriented human being with a heart made of gold. He loved his children like every father should.

I remember I had made plans to go camping for the first time. I was telling Roe that I had never been before, and that I had to go out and pretty much buy everything I needed. Without hesitation, Roe and Frank filled my truck up with everything I needed to be comfortable on my trip. This might not seem like very much, but this just goes to show the kind of people the Ragonas are.
Frank, may you rest in piece. You will never be forgotten.

lorraine Pistorio

November 27, 2009

Although I made it to New York for the funeral, I miss talking to Frank on facebook. He was helping me learn about our family, he would call me and share stories about our grandparent and great- grandparents, he always told me these stories with such pride. I will miss you my cousin.

Glen Mendez

November 26, 2009

Iremember Frank as a very kind person,Rosalie and family u just have to take one day at a time.I'm just so sorry to here about your lose.What a shock,my condolences to u Rosalie,kids and all family .

allyn richards

November 26, 2009

I new the ragonas growing up in bellerose.I hung out with sal at 172 may gods love be with you. my prayers are with you.

November 25, 2009

Dear family just take one day at a time and then the next. I'm so sorry for your lose. My thoughts are with you all Paula Baron

Chris Fasano

November 24, 2009

I've Known Frank since first grade 1965. I'd lost touch with him for about 20 years, but when I got back in touch about a year ago, It was like we had seen each other yesterday. My prayers and condolences go out to his family. Heaven has gotten a good man.

Lisa Coffey

November 23, 2009

I remember Frank as being very kind, funny and an all around good guy. A friend of my parents since I was a little girl, I remember Frank his wife Rosalie and Frank's brother Sal. Sal would have the best 4th of July parties ever back in the day and I remember Frank treating everyone like they were his family. What a shock he is gone and my condolences to Rosalie, Matthew and Francesca. He is watching over all of you now with that big smile. God Bless you all.

Kristin (Camella) Widing

November 23, 2009

I worked with Frank for almost 10 years at LIBS. I remember when I first started as a telemarketer, donors were always requesting "Frank" and I thought "who is this guy?" Well, then I met him and understood why the donors loved him so much. He was 1 in a million. As I got to know him and love him as the donors did it was apparent how much he loved his family too. He always talked about his wife and children. He was just a happy man! It was infectious!
I feel blessed to have known him and to call him 'friend.' I will never forget him.

Ann Pizaro

November 23, 2009

I worked with Frank for several years at LIBS and still see him every 2 weeks when I give platelets. A few years ago we also found out we are "related". Well, sort of. His cousin Ed married my cousin Laurie. So Frank would tell people we were family reunited late in life. It was Frank, so people just believed it! I was never Ann after that, I was always "Hey, Cuz!". When I give platelets, as I will tomorrow in Frank's name, I don't 'hope' I will run into Frank, I 'want' to run into him. The funeral was a beautiful memorial to him. There is only one Frank and we will miss him dearly.
Love you, "Cuz" Ann Pizaro

A Platelet Donor

November 23, 2009

My Friend Frank Ragona

Family Man – A loving and devoted husband and the best father any child could have. His family was the center of his universe and gave him unending joy and happiness.

Working Man – Frank loved his work. The work he did helped to save people’s lives and not many individuals can say that about what they do at work.

Community Man – He gave back to his community, devoted countless hours (time he could have spent in other ways) working to help others. The community was a better place because of Frank.

Gentleman and Gentle Man – Frank was a classic gentleman and he was a gentle man. Frank lived the saying that the purpose of life is a life of purpose. He carried himself with grace and class and most of all he was concerned for the welfare of others. He gave selflessly to make the lives of other people better.

In life Frank was many things and he left us far too soon. We do not know why God called Frank home so young but for those that believe it is not ours to know or question the will of God. We accept it - as hard as it can be at times and this is one of those very difficult times. I do know this - God had a new role for Frank and that is Guardian Angel and he will now watch over his family and all of us - always.

Frank’s work here on earth was done and God called home his faithful servant to his reward in heaven. The world is a sadder place because of his absence but it is a far better place because of the life he lived. To us who remain Frank left a wonderful example of how people should live their lives – not focused on self but focused on others.

I will miss our conversations about our families and lives but look forward to the time when we will meet again. Rest with your God and enjoy your reward for a life well lived and a job well done.

Peace

michael molloy

November 23, 2009

my fondest memory of FRANK was on 9/11 in NYC, i remember a calm and encourging voice i looked up and saw FRANK i knew then i was going to survive the day.I will truly miss you, you brought great joy to us all.

Paul Landaw

November 22, 2009

I started giving blood about ten years ago. Frank talked me into donating platelets. I have been going every month ever since. My daughter turned 16 this summer, and, just before school started, I brought her to the Blood Center on a day when I was donating platelets so that she could be a first time donor, and have Frank perform her phlebotomy. She was reassured by his gentle touch. We are devastated to lose a great friend. I also used to sit with Frank at Sewanhaka school board meetings, and he always encouraged me to ask probing difficult questions.
To Frank's friends and family, I know that nothing can ease the pain of his tragic death, but we can all be cheered as we all have been made better people for having known him. His warmth, humor and kind nature will be treasured by all who had the privelege of knowing him. Go with God, Frank

Wake up to find out that you ARE the eyes of the world

November 22, 2009

This is how the whole world felt about Frank

Michael Leccese

November 22, 2009

Dear Frank, You left us way too soon, nobody was prepared. To think that this world must continue spinning without you is unfathomable. You touched so many lives in an amazingly profound way. I am proud to boast that we have been friends since grammar school, and pity those who cannot say the same on their own behalf. Your new friend at The Sea Breeze and Toomey's were equally shocked and saddened as those who have known you forever. I am sorry that you didn't get to meet my kids. I am glad that you got meet my sweet girl, Patti, who is also devastated in spite of the fact that you barely knew each other, big surprise ! We rocked it hard in your honor last night. I hope you heard Franklin's Tower, Tuesday's Gone and Candle In The Wind. Rest in glorious peace, Dear Friend. . Patti and Mike

Stephen Barbieri

November 22, 2009

I grew up in Queens, NY and having friends you grew up with they were more like family. Frank was one of those. We did't hang-out all the time
but our families knew each other well.I live in Florida now and when I herd of his passing it was very hard to understand.Frank I will miss you
Brother.Also my heart goes out to all his family members. God Bless You.

Kathy Joyce

November 22, 2009

When I first gave platelets in 1994,and your dad/husband welcomed me, at the end of the procedure, he held up the bag of platelets and told me that these were "going to Schneider's Children's Hospital to save some kid's life". I've been 'hooked' for 15 years, thanks to Frank. So he is not only your father/husband, he is also a HERO and a SAINT. You have my prayers and we all share your pain.

Marilyn Garfinkel

November 21, 2009

I worked with Frank for 11 years at Long Island Blood Services. Frank's infectious smile and incredible sense of humor made him so enjoyable to be around. The donors all loved him, he had so many people ask for him when they came to the blood center. The first time my daughter gave platelets I wanted Frank to be the one to take care of her, as I knew he would put her at ease. As others have already said, Frank was all about his family. His devotion to Rosalie and his children was obvious to all who knew him. The world has lost an incredible individual way too soon.

Eileen DeBitetto

November 21, 2009

Roe, Matthew and Francesca,
Frank and I worked together at the blood center for many years. If I knew I was going to be working with Frank I knew I was in for a great day, full of laughter.

There are no words that can help ease the pain of your loss. If Frank was given the choice to stay he would have stayed here with you all, he loved you all so much and spoke lovingly about you every single day I ever saw him. Of everything that man was a part of he was most proud of his family!

November 21, 2009

To the Ragona Family,
Our thoughts prayers are with you at this difficylt time. Frank will be missed terribly.

The Wenzel Family

Anne Carter

November 21, 2009

I started donating platelets at Lake Success about 10 years ago and donate frequently. Spending 2 hours chatting with Frank about family and food was always time well spent. He had a way of connecting with people that is very special. Having been at his wake this afternoon, I can see how very much he is loved by all he touched. Donating platelets will never be the same!

Brian Block

November 21, 2009

I last saw Frank and the Platelet Doner dinner in September. It had been a few years since I'd seen him but he made it seem like it was just a week and then got down on his knees and spoke to my 6 year old daughter.

God Bless you Frank

Amber-Rae Lawson

November 21, 2009

"To the Ragona Family. I am a student in the Elmont community and me and my family are deeply saddened by this loss. I will never forget his compliment to me that I had such a strong handshake and he was at my graduation and that was the last I would ever get to shake his hand again. May the Lord bless the Ragona Family and may the Lord be with him. God Bless! The Lawson Family"

November 21, 2009

Francesco always made it fun when I gave blood at NY Blood Center. I will miss him dearly. Perry G. Hendricks (Albertson NY)

Lynn Roa

November 21, 2009

Dear Ragona Family,

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

The Roa Family

Theresa, Tom and Cody Nastasia

November 21, 2009

To the Ragona Family

What a great loss. Our sons played basketball together and we loved being with Frank while watching their games. He always had that smile on his face and he was such an easy going guy. He was truly special. We will miss seeing him around, but will always remember him. We are so so sorry for your loss and may you find comfort in your wonderful memories of him.

Kerry Lazak-Tosun

November 21, 2009

I worked with Frank many years ago at Long Island Blood Services. He was always an upbeat person and had such a memorable laugh. One could never forget him. My sincerest condolences to his family at this time. I know they meant the world to him. Kerry Lazak-Tosun

Laura Mc Keown

November 21, 2009

Dear Rosalie,
I am so sorry for your loss, there are no words, I will never forget him.how much he was there during the loss of Mary Alice.May the four winds blow you safely home Dear sweet Frank Fare thee well,
I love you more than words can tell,
The world just got a little darker ,my prayers will always be with you and your family .
Laura

Maryann Corona-Cappello

November 21, 2009

Dear Cousin Rosalie and Family, We are truly sorry to hear of the passing of Frank. Being far away for so many years, we did not have the pleasure of knowing him. There are not any words to say to you that would ease your pain even slightly. Just know we are thinking and praying for the entire family. May God give you strength to get through this time.
Love, Cousin Maryann, Robert, Shawn and Anthony

henry preuhs

November 21, 2009

to the ragona family. my name is henry preuhs, i worked with frank in blood center in lake sucess as a vollenteer the year. every day i seen frank he was always smiling and said hello to me, ive also seen him at the ny blood dinners. he was a great person and will be missed. my prayers are with the whole family. my girlfriend peggy rogers just met him at the last dinner
peggy rogers & henry preuhs
324 post ave apt 3a,westbury,ny,11590

Rochelle Potak

November 20, 2009

I'd talked with Frank many times during my platelet donations at the Lake Success Blood Center. He was always cheerful, interesting and caring about big things and small ones. His passing is a shock; we are all poorer for his having left us. He clearly was a blessing to his family, to his community, and to all who knew him.

Cathy Trimarchi Lavin

November 20, 2009

May you find comfort knowing how much everyone loves Frank and how he has touched so many lives. I will always remember his jovial laugh, contagious smile- but his loving spirit will continue to live.
My deepest sympathies to you Rosile, Matthew, Francesca, Sal, Philip and the entire family.

Liz Marchello

November 20, 2009

My family and I know Frank from St. V's and Covert Avenue School. He was such a warm and caring person. He had a way of making you feel like you knew him your whole life, even if you had just met him. I don't think I will ever meet another person like that. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers are with his family and friends.

christopher reusch

November 20, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Stephen Rubenstein

November 20, 2009

To the Ragona Family:

I met Frank when I began donating platelets in 1993. Frank called me "capellini" because my veins are so small. Frank had a way that made you feel immediately at ease and to trust in his ability, he never missed...
Frank has followed my life from my marriage to the births of my girls, he always asked about them and joked about what it was like turning 40. I always looked forward to being able to say hello when donating. We also had a small competition about our hair, mine is longer. My wife and I are just stunned. Our thoughts are with you all.

Bob Thornby

November 20, 2009

Franks Wife and children, Sal,Phil and their families

On behalf of my family to yours, sincere shock on hearing of Franks passing, condolences are not enough for your loss.

From the days of OLS, 115, 172 and every park and hangout in Floral Park memories are what keep us sane and laughing!
Hoping and wishing your memories of Frank do the same.

Sincere sympathy and condolences,

Bob Thornby

Phyllis Fried

November 20, 2009

To the Ragona Family,
I also knew Frank from my visits to the Lake Success Blood Center as a platelet donor. We often chatted about our children who were similar ages and the time often flew by. He was a terrific person and he will be greatly missed by his family, co-workers, friends, anyone who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. My deepest condolences to his wife Rosie, and children Matthew and Francesca and the rest of his family. He would speak of you often and you could see the love he had for you all and how proud he was of his family.

Len Colombo

November 20, 2009

I did not know Mr.Ragona but judging from the entries here he was a much loved and respected person.My condolences to the entire Ragona Family.To Phil,one of the two best Police Officers i know,stay strong Paisan.

November 20, 2009

Dear Franks Family,

I worked with Frank at the LIBS in Lake Success many years ago. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Frank will be greatly missed.

Tricia Smith Prunoske

Jim Scerbo

November 20, 2009

Our prayers are with Frank's Family. He will be missed dearly by all the Donors and his co-workers. He is just one of the niceest person you could meet.
Jim Scerbo - Donor and previous resident of Emont.

Lance Aquilino

November 20, 2009

Roe, I am stunned.....words can not explain how much my heart is broken my love and my prayers go out to you and Matthew and Francesca. I will always be there if you need something..ALL MY LOVE Lance.....

Allen Earle

November 20, 2009

Dear Rosalie, Mathew and Francesca,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need. Our loss is Hevens' gain. Rest assured that Frank will continue to love you,guide you and watch over you from above. Frank my dear friend, until we meet again at Heaven's gate.

November 20, 2009

My deepest sympathy. May his memory be eternal.
Jayne Vitko, Elmont

Debbie Mizrahi

November 20, 2009

My poor poor Frank, I will miss you terribly....my little mighty mouse!!! How could you leave us!! You were always there for everyone and with that great big smile! You always had a zest for life, this is not fair!!!I am so happy I was able to see you in May, I guess what they say is true....the good die young. I will always love you and I will NEVER forget you.
Debbie and the "GIRLS"

Robin, Kenn, Samantha and Harry Nicastro

November 20, 2009

Dear Rosalie, Matthew and Francesca,

Our hearts break for you. It is so unbelievable that this has happened. Frank was such a good man and a wonderful friend. Our family is so tremendously sadened by this loss. We will all miss Frank's huge smile.

Bill Ciesla

November 20, 2009

What a great loss. As a frequent platelet donor who often had the good fortune of crossing paths with Frank, I wrote numerous glowing reviews of his caring work as a phlebotomist on the blood center's surveys, hoping that he would be acknowledged for the exceptional person and professional that he was. I am saddened beyond belief at his passing.

Annette & Kevin Denehy

November 20, 2009

Rosalie, Matthew and Francesca, we are so sorry for your loss. Frank was the "Mayor of Elmont". We often wondered if he had a twin brother as it was not possible for one person to do everything. Frank encouraged us to become more involved in the community, especially the Covert Ave PTA and the Elmont Board of Ed. We will never forget the homemade Chianti and conversation he shared with us one night after a PTA meeting. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Noreen Kassiotis

November 20, 2009

I know Frank is sitting with the angels watching over you Ro, Matt and Francesca. He was such a special man...so loved by those he touched. Michael and Taylor adored him, they are devastated by this tragic loss, as we all are. He will forever remain in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless,

Lorna Spence

November 20, 2009

Hi Pal: I haven't seen you for awhile, but I can say whole-heartedly, you wil be missed. may God be with you -

Lorna Spence

November 20, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

David Klopman

November 20, 2009

Dear Franks Family,
I knew Frank from Long Island Blood Services. He was the epitomy of what a man should be. Caring, loving and full of life. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know he touched me and so many people that he worked on. His smile was contagious and he will be sorely missed.

Sally Pistorio

November 20, 2009

My cousin Frank, he has always been a big inspiration to me in so many ways. He taught me how to drive when I was 14 and always told me to keeping smiling and always try to see the good side of things, no matter how bad they seem. I will miss him so much. I love seeing his pictures and that contagious smile. Rosalie, I can't even begin to imagine how you are feeling. I am so sorry. I wish there was some way I could take the pain from you and Matthew and Francesca. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Love, Sally

Rusty Colombo

November 20, 2009

To the Ragona family:
Our deepest sympathies to you all.
"Great guy" does not even come close
to describing Frank, he was one of a
kind. The world is definitely a lesser
place without Frank.
Sincere condolences,
The Colombo family

Diana Bostanci

November 20, 2009

Rosalie, Francesca and Matthew, my heart breaks for all of you. I just can't imagine this has happened. Frank will be in thoughts and prayers always.

Joe Pelletiere

November 20, 2009

I met Frank by being a Platelet Donor. Over the years I have witnessed the great qualities of him as a Husband to as he always spoke lovingly of his Wife "Rosie" as a father to Mathew and Francesca. He would talk endlessley of how proud he was to be in their lives. He made it a pleasurable expierence every few weeks to spend 2 hrs. with "Frank" to donate Platelets. He will surely be missed by everyones life that he touched. As a donor you can easily see that he was admired by his coworkers. He genuinely cared about each donor and their families. He will be remembered an asset that the children of his community will find hard to replace as he volunteered tirelessly to make their lives better by his many activities and work on the local school board and his church. Just one more note, This past Halloween I called Frank on his cell phone to ask him if he had a certian costume that I could borrow. When he answered the phone I said this is Joe Pelletiere one of your donors at the Blood Center. He imediately said to me " Joe, your not a donor You are my friend"
God Bless you Frank and your family. You will be in our prayers.
"Your friend", Joe

nicole pigeon

November 20, 2009

Frank, YOu are a great man, I know your above looking down making some joke about something. Your going to be missed by so many, you really touched the hearts of thousands. Thank you Frank for all you have done, To the family I am sorry for your loss.

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