Frank Vanca Sr.

Frank was born on July 10, 1956, to Frank and Marjorie (Miller) Vanca and was raised in Peekskill, NY until proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1974-76. Frank met the love of his life, Julia, in 1988 while on a hunting trip upstate. He asked for half-and-half, and she gave him decaf, and the rest was history. Together they had two wonderful children, Rosie and Frank Jr. Frank loved spending time with his family, admiring nature with his wife, fishing with his daughter, and playing tennis with his son.

For many years, Frank worked as a skilled freelancer in home improvements—siding, roofing, gutters, chimneys, carpentry, bricklaying, and more. His craftsmanship can be seen on homes throughout Oneonta, a legacy of quality work that will stand for generations.

Frank was known for his humor and loved sharing his hilarious jokes with anyone who would listen. He was happiest outdoors—fishing, hiking, hunting, and adventuring in the hills of Upstate New York, or relaxing on a boat in the Florida Keys, two places he cherished throughout his life. He had a deep love of music and enjoyed driving down country roads with the windows down listening to the likes of Van Morrison, Jim Croce, and Don Henley. Frank was an amazing cook and devoted much of his time to helping out in the kitchen at the Lord’s Table in Oneonta. He was also a passionate auto racing fan, traveling across the country to watch NASCAR, Formula 1, and sports car racing throughout his life. His favorite place in the world was Watkins Glen International Raceway, where he spent time every summer attending the Six Hours at the Glen.

Above all, Frank was a devoted husband and a proud father, treasuring every moment spent with his wife and children. He was a popular guy and easily made friends wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife Julie, daughter Rosie, son Frankie, sisters Kathy Marino and Nancy Greenfield, brother Flip Searles, and his cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Frank and Marjorie, his brother Jimmy Searles, his cousin Steven Vanca, his brother-in-law Paul Marino, and his best friend Wayne Hiland.

Frank wished to be remembered for his love of nature, his politeness, his eye for quality, and most of all, for the family he adored—his beautiful wife Julie and their two kids.

Frank was a big believer in second chances. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the Family Service Association (FSA) at 277 Chestnut St, Oneonta, NY 13820.

A service to celebrate Frank’s life will be held at 1PM on November 22, 2025 at the Oneonta Assembly of God located at 1667 County Rd 48, Oneonta, NY 13820.