Frank J. Socha

3/18/1952 - 9/10/2021

Noank - Frank J. Socha, 69, beloved husband of Kathleen (Holder) Socha. passed away Sept. 10, 2021, surrounded by his family after a long courageous battle with cancer. Born in New London March 18, 1952, to the late Frank and Evelyn Socha also of Noank. Along with his wife of 29 years, Frank is survived by his two sons, Jeremy Socha and wife Allison Socha of Noank and Nicholas Socha and Laurie Socha of North Stonington; two stepchildren, Melissa Green and Zachary Coon; 12 grandchildren and countless other family members.

Frank grew up in Noank with his brother, William. He then attended the University of Connecticut after graduating from Fitch High School. After UConn, Frank went to work at the family business with his father and brother at the Noank Foundry. He stayed there for a number of years and then moved on to a brief career in finance. While raising his sons, he decided to make a career shift into 911 dispatching which he fell in love with and retired from in 2020 after 20 plus years. In addition, Frank was also the Treasurer for Mystic River Ambulance for many years.

Frank was a lifelong member of both the Noank Fire District and Volunteer Fire Department. He joined the department in 1970 and has been the commissioner of the fire department since 1979. He dedicated a significant portion of his life to Noank and its community and was always an ear for those who had ideas. Most mornings he could be found in Carson's Store discussing the happenings of Noank with his community.

Frank had many loves; community and family were always on the top of the list. He also was an avid golfer, a member of the Seahorse League for many years. He loved the water and the views in Noank particularly from the top of Snake Hill throughout the year. He loved baseball and football, a lifelong Yankees fan who always joked that Red Sox fans weren't allowed in his house.

Frank always believed in living a simple life. He believed in taking the time to enjoy the great things that happen every day, manage the challenges that come before you and never forget how lucky we are for each day. He would always selflessly lend a hand, give advice, or just be there for anyone who wanted to talk. He will be sorely missed by his family and community.

Frank's family will greet relatives and friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 15, at Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. A celebration of life will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17, at the Mystic Yachting Center inside Mystic Shipyard, 100 Essex Street, Mystic for all who wish to attend.