Francis (Frank) J.  Coppola, Sr., 77, of Branford, formerly of Northford was called to heaven to serve as an angel on Saturday, February 17, 2018. Frank was born in New Haven on April 10, 1940, and was the son of the late Salvatore and Lucy Fratantonio Coppola.  He served his country faithfully in the US Army.  He was co-owner of the former James Camera shop of New Haven and later worked for United Aluminum for many years until his retirement. Frank had a love of photography and videography.  From the 1960’s to the 1990’s, Frank enjoyed filming the Yale Football games with his son Frank Jr. by his side. He also freelanced for WTNH and local surgeons by filming educational videos.  He enjoyed kayaking, dancing, running, playing basketball, traveling, good wine and New Haven pizza.  Most of all he enjoyed his children and grandchildren whom he loved unconditionally.  Father of Frank J. Coppola, Jr. (Karin), Karyn Heller (Erik) and Robin Coppola (Shaun Berard).  Grandfather of Mackenzie and Ava Coppola, Brett and Brendan Heller, and Avery Berard.  Brother of Patty Butler and Marie Nuzzello.  Friend and former spouse of Nancy Coppola. Loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.  He was a friend and mentor to many special people throughout his lifetime. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the amazing staff at Portland Care & Rehab Center and Middlesex Hospice.

The visiting hours will be Friday, February 23rd from 5 to 8PM at the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue.  Family and friends are invited to go directly to St. Mary’s Church, 731 Main Street, Branford, on Saturday, February 24th, at 11:00AM to attend a Mass of Christian burial.  Interment will be private.  Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to Folds of Honor at www.foldsofhonor.org.