Frank Francobandiero

Frank Francobandiero tragically passed away in Metuchen on March 3rd, 2023. Frank was a well-known and well-liked member of the Metuchen community since moving to our lovely town in 1997. Throughout his time in Metuchen, Frank shared his talents and generosity in a multitude of ways. With his self-owned business of Franco Construction Co. for over 20 years, he shared his gift and love for carpentry and home improvement by helping countless Metuchen and local residents renovate their homes to create beautiful spaces. It was not uncommon to run into him at the local Home Depot gathering materials for his clients, pass him driving his big white van around town, or see him sitting at Tony’s Pizza in Tano Mall grabbing a couple of slices on his lunch breaks. Frank was a former member of The First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen where he was heavily involved. He sang in the choir, served as a deacon, elder, and confirmation partner. Frank also served on the Community Nursery School board, Building and Grounds Committee, Nominating Committee, as well as volunteered for the 30 Hour Famine, and most notably volunteered his efforts towards the annual Habitat for Humanity Youth Mission trip, where he taught many youth how to use power tools, build homes, and most importantly, help others. Frank raised his three children Gabe, Hayley, and Jacob in Metuchen, who were all successful graduates of Metuchen High School in 2014, 2015, and 2017. Gabe, Hayley, and Jacob were all involved in many sports and organizations growing up in Metuchen. Frank volunteered his time towards coaching their Little League teams and soccer teams, as well as helping out with the Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts. Frank could also be found supporting Gabe with his musical talents, cheering him on as he played many instruments at church and school. He supported Hayley during her time as a Cheerleader for Metuchen Pop Warner, and he cheered on Jacob as he ran cross country and track for Metuchen High School. Frank was a fitness enthusiast, and you could most likely see him running or cycling around Metuchen with his local self-named group, “PTP” (Past Their Prime). Frank also had an extensive history with the Fuce 5k race, running in many of the races since its inception, always placing near or at the top for his age group. Most notably, Frank was the overall winner of the inaugural Fuce 5k. Frank will always be remembered for his generous heart, devotion to his children and family, and service to the local community.

Frank’s final request to his beloved children and family was to be buried in Bridger, Montana with his grandparents that he adored so much. Frank’s mother was born and raised in Bridger, Montana in which he always enjoyed visiting the Big Sky Country, year after year to see family, go camping, and make memories. Frank made it a point to bring his children and family to Montana every summer for family reunions and trips to Yellowstone National Park, some of Gabe, Hayley, and Jake’s fondest memories of their childhood. Frank felt most free in the mountains and we want to honor his last request of being laid to eternal rest with his Grandma and Grandpa Koch in the Bridger Cemetery, with the mountains and heavenly sky watching over him.