Mussolini "Frank" Tavano

Mussolini “Frank” Tavano, 89, of Worcester passed away peacefully, Monday, April 9^th 2018 with loved ones gathered at his side after a period of declining health. 

Frank was born and raised in Worcester, a son of Guisto and Maria (Pavau) Tavano.  He graduated from the Worcester Public Schools, then joined the U.S. Army Air Corps during the end of World War II, serving his country proudly.  Upon his discharge from service and return to Worcester, Frank married Jean Katherine Spring and began their life together raising their children both in Worcester and for a period of time on Cape Cod from 1965 to 1993, before returning to Worcester. His love, Jean passed away in 1985.   Frank provided for his family as a painter; both self-employed and for various painting companies before retiring.

Frank is survived by four sons, Frank Tavano, Jr. and his wife Donna of Harwich, Dino Tavano in Alabama, Arthur Tavano and his wife Amy of Portland, Maine, and James Tavano and his companion, Suzan Craig with whom he lived and his principal caregivers; a stepson, Edward Reiley in Tennessee; Grandchildren; Great grandchildren; Many nieces, nephews and extended family members.   Besides his wife Jean, Frank was predeceased by a son, Raymond Tavano, daughter, Nancy Tavano, and ten siblings, Victoria Kardokas, Gloria Donahue, Anthony, Joseph, and James Tavano, Nancy Hanley, Yolanda Wondolowski and Rose Quatrucci. 

Frank was an avid sports fan, who followed the Red Sox, Celtics, and New England Patriots. He had a mind for history, read the newspaper daily front to back for many years, and liked to cook.  His grandchildren were his life; He loved to travel with them, helped raise a few of them and loved Cape Cod.  

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Thursday, April 26^th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  His funeral service will be held Friday, April 27^th at 11:00 am in the funeral home.  Burial with Military Honors will follow in St John’s Cemetery.  The family requests that flowers be omitted.