Obituary of Francis P. Orlando

Francis P. Orlando (Frank), 90, an Owego resident for 49 years, died on December 12, 2018 in Westminster, Maryland. Mr. Orlando was a lifelong educator who served as principal at two elementary schools in the Owego-Apalachin School District for more than 20 years. Prior to moving to Owego, he and his wife opened a school in the Dominican Republic for disadvantaged children.  Photography and horticulture were two of his great passions, and he believed that they could play an important role in education. As principal of Owego Elementary School, he established a school garden and a photo lab, and personally taught photography to students.  His interest in photography dated back to his college days. While working toward degrees at Iona College and New York University, he sidelined as a professional photographer, and later served as a Stateside army photographer during the Korean War. He maintained his own greenhouse at his home on Main St., where he specialized in growing and photographing orchids. After retiring, he joined the Owego Master Gardeners, where he shared his extensive knowledge of plants.  Mr. Orlando is survived by his wife of 62 years, Rose; his four children and their spouses, Mary and Mark Llewellyn, James Orlando and Kim Foltz, Louise Orlando and Andrew Barbour, Paul Orlando and Susan Joan Mauriello; and 10 grandchildren.  Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Owego, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Carroll Hospice, 292 Stoner Ave, Westminster, MD 21157. Condolences may be made to Mr. Orlando’s family at www.emfaheyfuneralhome.com

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Patrick Church, 300 Main St., Owego, on Saturday, June 8 at 10:00 am.