Frank Grzelecki

Obituary of Frank Grzelecki

Frank E. Grzelecki, a longtime New Canaan resident, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loved ones on November 29, 2024. He was 87. 

Born and raised in Schenectady, NY, Frank was the son of Edward and Lena Grzelecki. He attended Gettysburg College and met Jean Nissley, his lifelong friend and wife of sixty-five years. After serving in the Army, they raised their two daughters, Sharon and Deborah, in East Greenwich, RI and Princeton, NJ before moving to New Canaan in 1985. 

Frank held executive positions with Colgate Palmolive, Textron, Lenox Inc., Brown Foreman Corp., Beatrice Companies, Inc. and Handy & Harman. He also served as a member of the Board of Directors of numerous companies during his business career. 

Frank enjoyed boating and fishing. He truly loved being around his family. 

Frank is survived by his daughter Sharon Smith and her husband Kevin of Sparta, NJ and Deborah’s partner Tom O’Connor. He found great joy in his six grandchildren Matthew Smith, Clayton Smith, Molly Bowness, Shannon Rooney, Kyra Rooney, Emily Rossin, and his six great grandchildren Nathan Bowness, Nora Bowness, Nolan Smith, Nellie Bowness, Marta Rossin, and Lucy Smith who will miss him immensely.

Frank was predeceased by his wife Jean, daughter Deborah Rooney, and his sister Mary Lou Watson. 

Private services will be held.

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