Frank J. Dragone, of Hallendale Beach, FL, formerly of Squantam,died Saturday at the Hospice Of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach, FL. following a brief illness.
Born in Italy, he was the son of the late Giuseppe and the late Rose (Marchio) Dragone. Mr. Dragone was the former owner and operater of Dragone Cheese Co. of Medford, which was the largest maker of Italian cheeses in New England. Dragone cheese company was founded by Frank´s father, the late Giuseppe Dragone, in Boston´s Historic North End in 1927. The family business then moved to Medford in 1958 and was operated by Frank and his two brothers until they retired and sold the business in 1973.
Mr. Dragone was a Lieutenant and Life Member of the Ancient and Honorable Artilary Company of Boston. He was also a past member of the Squantam Legion Post. Mr. Dragone enjoyed playing golf and being an independent person.
It has been requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Frank´s memory to The Hospice of Palm Beach County Inc. 5300 East Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
He is survived by three sons; Joseph of Newton, Richard of Waltham, Philip of Watertown, and four daughters; Audrey Rappalo of Watertown, Roberta Stearns of Georgia, Rosann Donahue of Belmont and Maria Perez of Weymouth. Frank is also survived by fourteen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. In addition to his children and grandchildren Frank is survived by his sisters, Mary Pierni of Revere, Sandra Webster and Angie Pinnone both of Watertown, and one brother, James Dragone of Watertown. Frank is preceded in death by a brother, the late Albert Dragone.
Funeral from the Dello Russo Funeral Home 306 Main St. Medford, Thursday, at 10 AM. Followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, 118 High St, Medford, at 11 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
Visiting hours Wednesday 4 thru 8 PM.
Services will conclude with entombment in Oak Cemetery, Medford.