Francis M. 'Frank' Ruggiero, 89, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on January 30, 2021 at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center.  Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Felix and Esther (Conroy) Ruggiero, and stepson of the late Angela Ruggiero.

Frank was raised in Niagara Falls, graduating from Bishop Duffy and earned his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in English and Spanish at Niagara University.  He served proudly in the United States Army from 1955 until his honorable discharge in 1957.  On May 11, 1957, he married Katherine A. (Renda) Ruggiero at St. Joseph's Church.  Frank was employed for 38 years as an English and Spanish teacher in the Niagara Falls and Niagara Wheatfield School Systems, and also taught Spanish at St. Joseph's School in Niagara Falls, NY.

Frank was a member of the New York State United Teachers Association and the New York National Education Association.  He was a lifelong member of St. Joseph's Church, where he served on the Parish Council and was an usher, a member of the choir, as well as a member of the Holy Name Society, the St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Joseph's Church and the Niagara District.  Frank also was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Retired Men's Service Club, a VISTA volunteer for HANCI, a member of the Niagara Falls Bowling Association and was on the Board of Directors for the Interstate Teachers Bowling Tournament.

Frank served as a legal adjudicator for the Immigration and Naturalization Service working on the Illegal Alien Amnesty Program, and was a community ambassador to Mexico for the City of Niagara Falls.

In addition to his wife of 63 years, Frank is survived by his children, Felix J. Ruggiero, Francis M. (Christina) Ruggiero, Jr., Michael J. (Carolyn) Ruggiero, Marianne (Steve) Brown and Matthew P. (Ann) Ruggiero; ten grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by a daughter, Theresa Dombrowski, as well as his siblings, Rose (late Nick) Vicino, Mary (late Dan) Bax, Flora Stone, Alex (late Ruth) Ruggiero, and Bill (late Agnes) Ruggiero.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 3 ^rd from 10 – 11 AM at Holy Family Parish at St. Joseph's Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301 where Frank's Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 AM.  Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Joseph's Church or to a charity of one's choice.  Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.