Frank J. Cipolla

Frank Cipolla passed away on February 11, 2026, in Williamsville, NY at the age of 97 surrounded by music and those who loved him. Beloved of 72 years to Wilma (Reid); adored father of Barbara of Waterbury, VT; brother of Shirley, of Miami, Fl and the late Phillip of Jupiter, Fl., also survived by ‘granddogs’ Tucker and Missy and many cousins.

Frank was born in Buffalo, NY to Phillip and Mary Cipolla and discovered his first love, the trumpet, at the age of 8. After a youth spent playing in clubs, he went on to study at the Eastman School of Music and the Vienna Academy of Music and Arts. Subsequently, he joined the Kansas City Philharmonic in Kansas City, MO where he and Wilma were married and their daughter, Barbara, was born.

He then pursued a career as Professor of Music at the University of Missouri and the State University of New York at Buffalo where he was known as ‘the Chief’ and was an inspiration and mentor to many. Frank wore many hats as director and conductor of the marching and symphonic bands and wind ensemble. He continued to practice the trumpet daily with passion until his last days.

As a published author and noted scholar in the field of early American bands, he wrote on the major figures of band history, was an editor and researcher and created a bibliography of writings in the field. He worked to integrate historic band music into the repertoires of modern bands. His latest book, a biography of P.S. Gilmore, will be published posthumously.

Frank and Wilma shared a love of the outdoors and were dedicated members of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Known as ‘the legend’, he enjoyed hiking, skiing, biking and canoeing. Their curiosity and love of adventure took them to the moors of England, the mountains of Europe, the glaciers of Scandinavia and to the boundary waters of Minnesota.

Frank was an Army Air Force veteran serving as bugler in the Army Band in Panama.

He lived life to the full and did so with grace and dignity. He drew people to him with his warmth and smile and genuine interest in others. We will miss him terribly.

The family is grateful for the amazing care given by his aides Connie, Jessica, Kimberly, Camille, Susan, Holly, Lydia, Tiffany and Marilyn over the past two years.

No prior visitation, funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 1 at 1pm at Calvary Episcopal Church, 20 Milton St., Williamsville NY with a reception to follow in the church hall. Please share online condolences at www.beachtuyhfh.com