Mr. Frank Acquaviva, 83, of 4321 Acme Rd., Ilion, (town of Frankfort), a Frankfort native, passed away peacefully on Friday afternoon, March 7th, 2008 in Mohawk Valley Nursing Home, Ilion with the comfort of his wife by his side. He was born on September 15, 1924 in Frankfort, son of the late Salvatore and Mary (Papa) Acquaviva and attended Ilion schools. On March 1, 1943, Frank enlisted with the United States Army and served until December 23, 1945 when he received an honorable discharge, holding the rank of Quarter Master Tech. Sergeant. He was joined in marriage with Laura Kirkey in the First United Methodist Church, Herkimer on October 6, 1951 with whom he shared a loving and devoted union of 56 years. The Rev. Fred Cotnam officiated the ceremony. Frank's last professional employment was with Hale Manufacturing in Herkimer where he was a shipping and receiving clerk. He retired in September of 1986 following years of dedicated service. He was formerly employed with Standard Furniture. A proud U.S. Veteran he was a member of the Michael S. Pliseck Post #4915, VFW of Herkimer and was at one time a member of the Herkimer Masonic Lodge #423, F & AM. Mr. Acquaviva was an exemplary role model, mentor and friend to his family. He touched and influenced the hearts and lives of his loved ones. He was a proud husband, father and grandfather whose whole life was a gift of love to those he leaves behind. In his spare time he enjoyed bowling and was a huge Yankees fan and loved watching sports. He leaves his beloved wife Laura of Ilion; a son and daughter in law: Larry and Dorothy Acquaviva of Korea; a granddaughter: Crystal Rose Acquaviva of England; a grandson: Chris James Acquaviva; a sister and a brother in law: Anne and Neil Goslin of Chesterton, Indiana; a brother in law: Lloyd Gallup of Ilion; a brother in law: Glen Kirkey; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by three sisters: Catherine Gallup on July 20, 1989, Amy Moreau and Angie Monus. The family will receive relatives and friends at calling hours on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 from 5-8 p.m. at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. Mr. Acquaviva's funeral will commence at 10 am on Wednesday, March 12th from the funeral home. Spring interment will be held in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Please omit floral offerings. Memorial contributions may be offered to the American Lung Association or to the American Cancer Society; envelopes may be obtained at the funeral home. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Mohawk Valley Nursing Home, Ilion and St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Utica for their kindness and compassion offered. Members of the Herkimer VFW will conduct their service at 6 p.m. at the funeral home on Tuesday evening.