Obituary of Francis Vincent Walsh

Frank Walsh was called home by God to be with his beloved wife Maureen on Saturday April 22, 2023. Born on October 4, 1934 in Brooklyn, NY, he was the third child of Francis E. and Gertrude Walsh (nee Sullivan). A lifelong Brooklyn native until moving to New Jersey in 2013, Frank spent most of his years in both the Flatbush & Marine Park sections of Brooklyn, whereas a child he attended Our Lady Help of Christian grammar school followed by St. Agnes High School in New York City. Before graduating the Maritime Academy (Fort Schuyler) in 1956, Frank had quite the distinguished boxing career, garnering the nickname Knocko because of his ferocious left hook. He went on to proudly serve in the United States Navy as a Lieutenant Junior Grade until receiving an honorable discharge in 1959. He then embarked on a career in the New York City Fire Department starting in 1962, that lasted almost 35-years and included several commendations for bravery. His love of the FDNY was surpassed only by the love he had for his family. Frank met his soulmate, Maureen Murphy in 1963. They married on January 30, 1965 and started their family in January of 1966 with the birth of their first son Francis (Basia) followed by Timothy (Alyson) in 1967 and Mary Kathleen (Stephen) in 1971.

Known as Paca, he was the proud grandfather to twelve adoring grandchildren: Big Matthew, Samantha, Matt, Nicholas, Caitlyn, Kelsey, Logan, Madelyn, Casey, Emily, Tyler and Daniel.

He is predeceased by his brother Ray and his twin brother Billy. He is survived by his sister Muriel Wilkinson & many loving nieces & nephews.

Over the years, Frank, affectionately known as Cigar, for his love of the stogie, cherished spending time with family and friends, which included vacations in the Catskills, Brooklyn Mariners games, summers at Breezy Point and numerous FDNY functions. While known as a man of few words, he never hesitated to make people laugh with his wonderfully wry sense of humor.

Frank's family will receive friends at Marine Park Funeral Home on Thursday, April 27, from 3-8pm. 3024 Quentin Road Brooklyn, NY 11234, 718-339-8900.

Prayer services will be held at 12pm on Friday, April 28 at Hegarty & Scalia Home for Funerals. 3377 US-9 Old Bridge, NJ 08857.

Burial immediately following at Forest Green Park Cemetery. 535 Texas Road Morganville, NJ 07751 In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Fire Family Transport Foundation by clicking the link provided, http://www.firefamilytransport.org