Frank W. Konesky, Jr., 86, EHPD 37 years (retired), of East Haven, passed away Jan. 9, 2014. Born Sept. 14, 1927 in New Haven to the late Frank and Mary (Griek) Konesky, Frank is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Faye (Faulkner) Konesky and four children, Frank W. Konesky III of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, Nancy Lynch (Jack) of Cheshire, Kathryn Zandri (Geno) of Wallingford, and Sandra Leone (Anthony) of Aliso Viejo, California; seven grandchildren; 10 great- grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by four brothers and one great-grandson.

Frank joined the East Haven Police Department as a supernumerary in 1950, was appointed to Grade C Patrolman in 1951, and 10 years later was assigned to the newly-established detective bureau. Frank rose rapidly through the ranks; he was named Detective Lieutenant in 1964 and Inspector in 1970, third in command, charged with supervising the street patrol, detective division, and internal affairs. 

Five times, Frank won the EHPD’s highest honor, the Citation of Merit, an award bestowed only on officers whose performance resulted in saving a life or who performed in a situation which placed an officer’s own life in danger in the line of duty. Frank held more than 30 commendations from the police department, a distinction which earned him a Police Service Bar with Silver Star. He was a member of the 17th class of the National Crime Prevention Institute School of Police Administration at the University of Louisville, and received his certification on March 27, 1975. During his career, Frank handled delicate hostage situations and supervised riot control operations during a time of unrest along the shoreline area of Momauguin.

Frank loved to travel, spend time with his family, and adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who shared the same feelings for their beloved “poppy.” Frank’s goal was to make every minute of the day count; his acts of generosity and goodwill were beyond measure. Frank will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Family will receive friends Friday, Jan. 17 from 4 -7 p.m. at the Clancy Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial Mass for Frank on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Pompeii Church, Route 80, East Haven. Burial in East Lawn Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you perform random acts of kindness in Frank’s memory to carry on his legacy. For online condolences and directions please visit www.clancyfuneralhome.com.