Francis DeSales Connelley

Francis DeSales Connelley, lovingly know by most as “Coach Frank” was born to the late Joseph Connelley & Rose Gladys (Crowe) in Cumberland, MD. He was proceeded in death by his wife Julie A. Crippen, daughter Karen L Kreigline, Son Joseph Connelley and brothers James P, Thomas J, and John M. Survived by daughter Julie and husband Todd as well as his daughter Nicole, grandchildren, D.J. Kreigline, Kody Knipple, wife Morgan, Kaylee, husband Andrew, Tyler with fiancé Astar, & Cullen. Great Grandchildren Kora, Kolson, Kamden, Bowen. As well as close cousin Dan Hackworth who was more like a son and wife Amy. Close friend Dirk Smith, who was more like a son, wife Monique and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Frank was born January 28th, 1943. He attended Lasalle High School and graduated in 1961. Frank worked at Kelly Springfield in Cumberland, MD where he met his wife, Julie. They moved to FL in 1975 where Frank worked at Firestone until he and Julie decided to open their real estate/ property management company C&C Real Estate in Cape Coral. He later worked at Raso Realty for many years.

Frank dedicated his spare time to the youth of the community for nearly 40 years where he was lovingly known as “Coach Frank”. Over the years he helped establish The Storms Football and Cheer Organization as well as The Lee County Hawks. He was President of multiple boards and gave countless hours of his time to help create a safe and fun place for the youth to learn and love to play the game of football as well as cheer. He didn’t just teach the game, but he taught core life lessons along the way that stuck with his players, such as a strong work ethic, respect and sportsmanship. Frank was a great role model for many, young and old.

Frank was also a loyal member of the knights of Columbus and The Moose lodge for over 50 years. He would spend many weekends with friends and family doing what he loved, singing karaoke. Frank will be deeply missed by all that knew him.