Frank John Grassia, long-time resident of Glens Falls and Queensbury, died unexpectedly the evening of Tuesday, November 5th, at his home in Queensbury. Born in the Bronx, NY, on November 12th, 1947, to Frank and Sophie Grassia, Frank was raised in the post-war Bronx Projects, graduated Cardinal Hayes high school in 1965, and, in 1969, became the first of his  large extended family to earn a college degree, from Hunter College.

He met his future wife, Frances (née Posch), in 1967 while working his way through college as a short-order cook in Lenox Hill Hospital. They were married in New York City two years later, in 1969. Frank began teaching in a special service school in the City, but, wanting to raise their young sons Frank Sebastian and Joe in a less urban environment, he and Fran moved to South Glens Falls in 1972. There, Frank began a thirty-year career teaching high school history at South High.

Always thirsty for knowledge, Frank read broadly and was a resource not only for students but for other teachers, even outside his department. Frank also instilled a love of reading in his sons. Generous with both his knowledge and opinions, you'd be unlikely to convince him he was incorrect in either one. Later in life, he became deeply engrossed in the study of Taoism and Zen Buddhism, ultimately considering himself an existentialist and Taoist.

In addition to reading, Frank had many other interests and hobbies, including music, cinema, model trains, the Yankees, and Star Trek. Frank's other lifelong hobby was oil painting, a passion he reconnected with in the years before his death.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Frances; his sons Frank Sebastian and Joe; daughters-in-law, Mei and Yumiko; grandchildren, Joshua and Alicia; brother, Anthony; sister, Sophie; his uncle, John Campise; sisters-in-law, Carmen Dowling and Bernice Schoeneman; nephew, Craig Grassia, and his family; niece, Cara Cortazzo, and her family; nephew, Ed Dowling; and niece, Eileen Tomeo, and her family— all of whom miss him dearly.

Contributions in memoriam can be sent to Mercy Corps , his favorite charitable organization.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804.