Francesco “Frank” Michael Oppedisano, 74, passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by family, March 3, 2020. Born in Springfield, he was the son of the late Saverio & Elda (Truschelli) Oppedisano.
Frank attended Cathedral High School, graduating in 1963, where he met the love of his life, his high school sweetheart Laurette, who he married on August 19, 1967. He attended A.I.C. on a basketball scholarship and graduated in 1967; then went on to teach history for 38 years at Palmer High School. Given his passion for basketball, he was the Palmer High School varsity coach for 25 years. He was an active member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, and the Italian Cultural Center in Springfield, and played golf as often as possible. He loved the Red Sox & NY Giants, and was thrilled to watch the Red Sox win it all 4 times, especially their first in his lifetime in 2004, also when the Giants beat the Patriots twice!
To know Frank was to love him; he was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and a friend to all. He cherished his grandchildren, never missing any of their sporting events. He also loved his furry granddogs, caring for them whenever he was given the chance.
To say, “Frank will be missed,” would be an understatement; everyone mentioned here has lost a piece of themselves, including his greatly loved and adoring wife of 52 years Laurette (Farina), his beloved daughters, Diane Davitt, husband John and children Francesca & Jack of E. Longmeadow, Denise Wurszt, husband Ed, and children Eddie, Petey & Matty of Wilbraham, and Darlene Oppedisano of Springfield, his son, Frank Jr., wife Lea and children Sophia & Frankie aka “Ciccio” of Hopkinton, his brother, John & wife Maepowleah of Portland, OR, his beloved Aunt, Betty Truschelli of Mahopac, NY, along with many dear cousins, nieces, nephews & friends. Sadly, Frank was also pre-deceased by his sister Mary Ellen.
Visiting hours will be Monday, March 9th from 4-7 p.m. at Tazzini Funeral Home, 22 Locust St. in Springfield. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 10th beginning at 9 a.m. at the funeral home, with a Liturgy of Christian Burial, to be celebrated at 10 a.m., in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Springfield. Burial will follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution, in Frank’s name to Sisters of St. Joseph, 577 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for online condolences.
So sad to hear of Ope's passing. Ope was one of my favorite teachers. It's said that teachers make an eternal impact on their students- one life at a time. Ope made a significant difference in my life. He will be missed. Heartfelt prayers and condolences for the family.
Ope was a presence and mentor to so many young lives in his time at Palmer High School. He will always be proudly remembered for the strength he instilled in others. Rest in Peace, Coach.