Francis J. Fortunato, 83 of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on Saturday September 19, 2015 at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of the late Vito N. and Rose (Lary) Fortunato.

Frank was a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls. He attended local schools graduating from the former Trott Vocational High School in 1949, and was especially proud that he received a degree from Cornell Cooperative Extension in labor relations at the age of 48. Frank served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Alaska until his honorable discharge in 1954. On July 2, 1960, he married Mary Ruth (LaDuca) Fortunato in St. Stephen's Church in Grand Island.

Frank was involved in the construction of the New York State Power Project. During the 1970's, he owned and operated Superior Television Repair, and later worked as a communication technician at the Niagara Falls Air Force Base. He went on to become the Chief Communication Officer for the City of Niagara Falls Police Department until his retirement after 21 years of service. During that time, Frank was actively involved in the Police Athletic Club (PAL) and ran the Policemen's Credit Union, continuing even after his retirement.

Frank served as a troop leader for his sons Boy Scout Troop #810 for many years, and enjoyed many camping trips to Canada. He was an avid outdoorsman who especially enjoyed hunting, fishing and boating. In his leisure time he participated in local bowling leagues, and also enjoyed tending to his garden. Most of all, Frank loved attending his children and grandchildren's sporting, dance and musical events.

In addition to his wife of 55 years, he is survived by his two children, Francis Paul Fortunato of Niagara Falls, NY and Laura Marie (Fred) Strano of Williamsville, NY, three grandchildren, Steven (Jessica) Fortunato, Sydney Strano and Cara Strano. He was predeceased by two brothers, Joseph Fortunato and Rocco 'Rocky' (late Louise) Fortunato. He is also survived by his nephews, Nicholas, Paul and Michael Fortunato and their families, his brother-in-law, Robert (Jilda) LaDuca, and children, Robert Jr., Ronald, Bonnie, Jeffrey, William and their families.

Visitation will be on Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL 2730 Military Road Niagara Falls, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday September 24th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Parish at Prince of Peace Church 1055 North Military Rd. Niagara Falls, NY. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Entombment will follow with Military Honors in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the American diabetes Association 315 Alberta Dr. Suite 102 Amherst, NY 14226.