Frank LaVia, 74, of Lewiston, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 25, 2018 at Buffalo General Hospital. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late John and Vivian (Walters) LaVia; and the beloved husband of Laura Morinello-LaVia, who he married April 20, 2002.

Frank was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School and earned his Bachelor's Degree from Wichita State University. He served in the United States Air Force from 1962 until his honorable discharge in 1966. Frank began his work career in Tucson, Arizona as the owner and operator of Frankie's Pizza Parlor. He then moved to Las Vegas where he served as the general manager of the Fremont Hotel.

Frank returned to the area in 2000 and was employed as a car salesman at Don Davis Dealerships prior to his retirement in 2010. Following his retirement, Frank stayed active working part time for Fort Niagara as a tour bus greeter. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and going for coffee with his friends. Frank will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his satirical wit.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children Salvatore, John Duke and Patrick LaVia; mother-in-law Mary Certo Rolle; brothers-in-law Judge Angelo Morinello and Vincent (Karen) Rolle; great-nieces, who were like grandchildren to him, Giuliana and Raffaela Genovese; his siblings, Constance (late Richard) Costello, Joanne (William) Justyk, Jeanne (late Paul) Jeras, as well his many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, November 28 ^th from 4 – 7:30 P.M. at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Frank's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11 A.M. in St. Peter's R.C. Church, 620 Center Street Lewiston, NY. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.