Francis Michael Hillery Jr., of Weston, formerly of Concord, passed away on November 23, 2023.
He was born in Manchester, CT on May 2nd 1930 to Grace (D’Arcy) and Frank Hillery Sr. After graduating from Manchester High in 1948 he enlisted in the Air Force where he served out the Korean War, in a motor pool, on Long Island, NY. Using the G.I. Bill, Frank attended The University of Connecticut where he graduated with a degree in Economics. From there he was recruited to The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston where he worked for over ten years, first as a bank examiner and then in a newly formed computer department.
In 1963 he met the love of his life, Susan Leslie Gregg, while skiing at Cannon Mt. in Franconia NH. They married in 1965. In 1967 they moved to Concord, MA to raise their two children. In 1969, Frank decided to leave banking and become an entrepreneur. He took over Vent-O-Matic, an incinerator manufacturing company which he ran successfully until 1991.
In his semi-retirement, Frank moved to Pownel, ME where he worked as a lumber broker and also did small carpentry jobs. He enjoyed grilling, gardening, going to art openings and museums.
In 2015 Frank moved to Brook School Apartments, in Weston, MA where he made new friends. Frank had a ceaseless curiosity that ranged from politics, to art, culture, travel, automobiles, architecture, science and technology. Frank’s zest for life, food and fellowship never left him. He was always “game” for anything.
Frank is survived by son, Matthew Hillery, daughter in law Linda (Strain) Hillery and 3 grandchildren: Daniel, Margaret and Katherine of Weston; and daughter, Amanda Hillery of Concord. He has 10 nieces and nephews who live all over the United States. Preceded in death by both of his parents, his wife, and two sisters: Harriet Stansfield and Grace Williams.
The family feels grateful to the caregivers who lovingly helped Frank stay in his home, as well as to the Brook School Apartment Community of friends and to the Weston Council on aging who work tirelessly and successfully to enhance the lives of all seniors in the community.
Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of his life at the Weston Community Center, 20 Alphabet Lane, Weston on Sunday, March 17th at 12:00pm.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord. For Frank’s online guestbook, please visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
