Frank R. Papalia, 83, passed away Friday, June 9 after a long illness. He was born to the late Frank and Mary Papalia in E. Meadow, Long Island. Frank's greatest joys and passions in life were his family, students and teaching. He settled in Baldwinsville and pursued his 3 Master degrees and a CAS at Syracuse University and was one of 37 teachers chosen to study abroad at the University of Madrid. He met his wife of 56 years, Madeline, in North Syracuse while teaching there. He retired from North Syracuse Schools after 38 years and continued as a substitute teacher for the Baldwinsville, Liverpool and Phoenix Districts where he was known as the beloved "Mr. P". He was a published author of short stories and 3 novels. He was an adjunct professor at SU in the Higher Education Opportunity Program for 25 years. Frank was chosen by the US Department of Education to rate Schools of Excellence. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening and vacationing in Ogunquit, ME each year with Joe and Betty. Frank was a member of the Rose Society, winning many ribbons, and served on several Baldwinsville community boards, including the Village Board. Frank shared his wonderful sense of humor with his students, colleagues and friends. His most treasured role was being "Pop-Pop" to his grandson, Danny.

Frank is survived by his wife, Madeline Angelucci Papalia; daughter, Michele (Kenneth) Cheng; grandson, Daniel Cheng; brothers, Anthony (Mary Lou) and Joseph (Betty) Papalia; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours are 4-7 pm Wednesday, June 14 at Falardeau Funeral Home, 93 Downer St, Baldwinsville. A Mass of Christian Burial is 10 am Thursday, June 15 at St. Mary's Church, 47 Syracuse St, Baldwinsville. Burial is in Riverview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Baldwinsville Community Food Pantry, 17 W. Genesee St, Baldwinsville, NY 13027, Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 12226, Syracuse, NY 13218, Baldwinsville Community Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 88, Baldwinsville, NY 13027 or the Purpose Farm, 1454 W. Genesee Rd, Baldwinsville, NY 13027.