Frank Sokoli

Frank Sokoli, age 85 of Wayne, died peacefully on Sunday, June 16, 2024 with his loving family gathered at his bedside. Frank worked at Paterson and Passaic Rubber Company for over forty years as a Maintenance Engineer, earning a Black Seal specializing in maintaining boilers in large industrial settings.

Frank was a proud veteran who served as a U.S. Army Military Police officer in Germany from 1956 – 1959. Frank was especially proud of his son, Todd, who followed in his footsteps and served in the United States Marine Corps from 1991 to 1997.

Frank was an “old soul” of sorts. He was an avid sportsman with a passion for fishing and hunting. He also took great pride in cultivating what he thought was one of the largest gardens in Wayne, right in his own backyard. He often pickled his own cucumbers and zucchini, and gladly shared his harvest with friends and family every summer. Frank was also known for his great sense of humor, bringing joy everywhere he went with his jokes and famous catchphrases, such as “what goes here?” and “fight nice!” He was a devoted grandfather who cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, especially when creating his famous “concoction” meals! His grandkids never knew what the meal of the day would be, but they always loved it. Frank also devoted time to picking up his granddaughters from school and taking them to and from sports practices. One of his greatest joys was accompanying his granddaughter, Livia, to every practice and game, cheering on his favorite goalie! He also loved listening to the Heavy Metal music his son Todd produces for his band B.U.M. as he plays throughout Europe. Frank was also beyond handy and had a knack for fixing anything. He enjoyed working on his own car repairs and frequently undertook odd jobs for others, purely out of enjoyment. He could tackle any tasks ranging from plumbing and electrical, to every other type of home improvement. He could do it all!

Frank was especially devoted to his beloved wife, Marilyn. They had known each other since they were younger than ten years old. A few years later, Frank’s fondness for Marilyn grew and he would often hang around her block, hoping to catch a glimpse of her coming and going. Eventually, they began dating and Frank enjoyed taking her cruising in his ’64 Buick Electra convertible. They were married on April 25, 1964 and have enjoyed the most loving marriage for more than sixty years. Marilyn will miss him dearly.

Frank is survived by his wife Marilyn, his three Sons: Scott Sokoli (wife Cindy Sokoli and grandsons Jimmy and Evan of Wayne), Glenn Sokoli (wife Desireé and daughters Arden & Livia of Wayne, now residing in Brick, NJ), Todd Sokoli (wife Juani who resides in La Linea Spain and his children Cristina and Alejandro, residing in London, England), and his sister; Lorraine Kirk.  Frank was predeceased by his infant son; Gregg Sokoli (1968), his parents; Frank Sokoli Sr. and Catherine (nee Frick), and his brother; Bob Sokoli.