Henry "Hank" Frizzi Jr.'s Obituary
Henry "Hank" Frizzi Jr. took his final curtain call on May 22, 2024, at the grand age of 95. Born on August 9, 1928, in Bellaire, Ohio, Hank lived a life that was nothing short of extraordinary.
Hank was a proud graduate of St. John Central High School's Class of '46. Post high school, he took his talents to the high seas with the U.S. Navy, serving from 1946 to 1948. After swapping his sailor's hat for a scholar's cap, Hank graduated from Western New Mexico University in 1953 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.
Hank's love for knowledge and sports found a perfect marriage at North Fairfield Schools and later at Vermilion High School. At Vermilion, he wasn't just a teacher; he was a mentor, a coach for basketball and football, and the spirited Athletic Director.
A globetrotter at heart, Hank explored all 50 states and journeyed through South America, Europe, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, and the Caribbean Islands. His passport told tales of a life lived fully and freely.
Hank’s social calendar was as packed as his travel itinerary. From the Lions Club (where he proudly served as past president), to the 8 Ball Dance Club, Bridge Club, and Gourmet Club, Vermilion Boat Club, and the Crow’s Nest at Parsons Marina, Hank knew how to balance fun and fellowship. He found joy in weekly Happy Hours with friends, a tradition that continued during his sunny years in Florida. He enjoyed the peace of being out on the water sailing with his family in the summers to Cedar Point and the Lake Erie Islands.
Ever the charmer, Hank was a Sinatra fan, often echoing the legendary crooner's words, “I did it my way.” His signature birthday proclamation, “I’m going on...” captured his zest for life and unyielding optimism.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 65 years, Ann (nee Horning); his children, Eric (Julie) Frizzi and Debbie (Steve) Cassell; his grandchildren, Curtis Cassell, Christopher Cassell, Erica Frizzi, and Nathan Frizzi; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Adelaide Frizzi Sr.; his sister, Evelyn Green; his brother, Alex Frizzi; and his parents-in-law, Floyd and Gertrude Horning.
Hank’s family will receive friends for a visitation on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m. The family invites everyone for a Celebration of Life reception following the funeral service in the Gathering Center of Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center.
In lieu of flowers, Hank’s family suggests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or Hospice of the Western Reserve.
Raise a glass, play some Sinatra, and remember Hank as he would have liked – with a smile and a story of adventure. Online condolences can be shared at www.dovinreberjones.com.
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