—
GLOUCESTER — Francis P. "Frank" Petronzio passed away on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2009.
Born in Beverly, Frank was the beloved eldest son of Theresa (Falloni) and Peter J. Petronzio.
In his early years he studied painting with, and was encouraged by his uncle John N. Falloni, an award winning portraiture and art teacher, as well as by Umberto Romano and Yashuo Kuniyoshi. He attended the Massachusetts College of Art and the Boston Museum School. In 1952 he received a B. F. A. degree from the Cleveland School of Art and went on to receive an M. F. A. degree from the Boston University School of Art in 1958. He taught art for many years in both the Newburyport and Gloucester public schools, retiring in 1982. He resided in Magnolia and for a time also in Florence, Italy with his wife Myriam (Hubbard ) where they both painted in many styles, including "pop art", watercolors and oils. Frank experimented in watercolor with primitive stylization, influenced by his father, Peter, a critically acclaimed primitive painter. Frank and Myriam also spent many summers at Vinylhaven, Maine, where he worked as a sculptor in granite as well as painting in all medias, fully enjoying the beauty of the island and the sea.
He received many awards for his work. As a long time member of the Rockport Art Associatin, Frank was honored by being named Artist Emeritus. In his own words, he believed "art is a celebration of the mystery of life and God."
He is survived by his stepdaughter Katherine Harvey of Magnolia, stepson Kent Hubbard of Arizona, sister Rose Nihart of Tonawanda, N.Y., sister Mary Tingley of Amesbury, brother Jake Petronzio of Beverly and brother Albie Petronzio and his wife Pamela, also of Beverly. Frank leaves behind a large, extended family including god children, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Myriam, sister Anna Russo and brothers Nicholas, Peter and Paul Petronzio.
Frank was cherished by all of his family and will be greatly missed. He leaves behind an abundance of his special talent. For this and his loving spirit they will always be grateful.
ARRANGEMENTS: Funeral services will be held Wednesday at noon at the Campbell - Lee, Moody, Russell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot St., Beverly (North Beverly location). Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours are Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Beverly. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.
