Frank “Sonny” Camirand, age 83, passed away peacefully in the company of his loving family on Thursday afternoon. A native of Cambridge, Sonny was the son of the late Joseph and Margaret (Gallagher) Camirand. A local activist in his younger years, Sonny was front and center with the Model Cities Program, defending Cambridge neighborhoods from the over-reaching urban renewal programs prevalent at the time and putting an end to the effort to bring Route 93 through Cambridge. He enjoyed a long career as a chef, operating his own restaurant and catering company, specializing in American cuisine. He was also head chef of the Harvard Faculty Club for several years. Although he lived in Medford for over 36 years, Sonny traveled around. He worked as a chauffeur both here and in California, taking care of A-list performers and celebrities. He was a decent and hardworking man, with a solid philosophy of life and a strong commitment to his family and friends.
Sonny leaves his beloved children: Jeannemarie Canzano, Donna Holland, Mark Camirand, Peggy Adams, and Nicole Autilio. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren: Jeannette Holland, Alex Canzano, Austen Canzano, Gianna Raneri and Christina Autilio.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family on Friday, August 31 from 4 – 8 PM at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford.
The Camirand family is deeply grateful for the kindness and compassion of the Merrimack Valley Hospice Team.
At Sonny’s request, In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN, 38105-9959.