Frank Mandra, 86, of Mystic, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 17, 2004.
He was born Francesco Mandracchia on June 6, 1917 in Manhattan, NY, to Vincenzo and Giuseppina Mandracchia of Italy. He was the youngest son of ten children. During WW II Frank served in the Army, posted to New York City as a Quartermaster.
On August 19, 1941 he married Mary Hornisky, to whom he remained faithfully devoted for 62 years. He was employed at Electric Boat as a Quality Assurance Technician, retiring after 26 years. He was a Mason for over 40 years.
Frank and Mary have attended Groton Heights Baptist Church for over 50 years, and have been involved in many aspects of church life through the years. Frank had a very active church music ministry. For many years he sang in the church choir. In addition Frank performed many special music solos at Groton Heights and many other churches in the area for church services, weddings, and other special events.
Frank was known for his ready smile, encouraging word, and strong faith in Christ. He lived his life as a witness of God’s grace and love to all. He will be dearly missed as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.
He is survived by his devoted wife Mary, his daughter Joanne Eyler of Mississippi, His granddaughter, Dr. GraceAnn Robertson and her husband Paul and their sons Drew and Alex, all of Michigan; a sister Lydia Cameron of Wisconsin and many nieces and nephews; along with many brothers and sisters in Christ.
Frank’s family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic on Tuesday evening from 6-8pm. The Bayview Lodge of Masons will conduct at Lodge of Sorrow at 7:30pm.
Frank's Funeral Service will be conducted at the Groton Heights Baptist Church, 72 Broad Street, Groton on Wednesday at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, P. O. Box 1270, Charlotte NC 28201-1270.