Florencio R. "Frank" Serrato, age 85, passed away Thursday, February 18, 2010, at the Kimwell Nursing Home in Fall River, following an extended illness. He was the husband of Dorothy Ann (Charette) Serrato of Fall River.
Born in Charlotte, Texas, he was a son of the late Ysmael Serrato and the late Andrea (Rendon) Serrato.
A Veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict, with over twenty years of service in the United States Navy, Boatswain Mate First Class Frank Serrato sailed the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans on nine different ships over his distinguished military career. He was especially privileged to have been a 'Plank Owner' of the USS William C. Lawe, having christened the ship and serve aboard her as a member of the ship's original crew.
Following his discharge from Navy Fleet Reserve he continued employment in the Navy as a civilian security police officer at Naval Station Newport.
Residing in Fall River since 1949, he was a communicant at St. Joseph's Church in Fall River.
Frank was a member of the American Legion, Alan T. Fernandes Post 464, the Disabled American Veterans, William S. Greene, Chapter 9, the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, Lodge 118, and the Knights of Columbus, Msgr. Jean Provost Council 12380, all of Fall River
In addition to Dorothy, his wife of 59 years, surviving family members include his daughter, Carol D. Fraile and her husband Richard, of Fall River. Frank was affectionately known as "Pops" by his two grandchildren, Andrea Cardoza and her companion Michael Smith, of Fall River, and Rachel Sardinha and her husband Andrew, of Fall River. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.
On Tuesday, February 23, friends and family gathered for a funeral Mass at St. Joseph's Church. After the service, pallbearers Michael Smith, Andrew Sardinha, Matthew Sardinha, Russell Bonnette, John Charette, and Robert Mello brough Frank to rest with full military honors at St. Patrick's Cemetery.