The obituary notice of Francesco GABRIELE

It was a pleasure and honour to have met you Francesco in your home over the past four years surrounded by your wife Angela daughters Rosanna, Palma, Gina and your son Tony. You always made me laugh with your wonderful sense of humour. You were always positive welcoming and cared deeply about the needs of others. Thank you for sharing you life history and the stories of your ice cream travels in County Durham. A true legend Francesco G. Ps "dont forget to bring a bottle"🇮🇹🍾🍷

It is with great sadness that I announce that on Friday 1st October 2021 we said our final goodbyes to my wonderful Dad, Francesco Gabriele (Frank). Following a short spell in hospital, Dad passed away at home surrounded by his family.

Born in Bondgate, Bishop Auckland, in 1926. Dad’s first job was at Ferens Mill as a driver’s mate, at the same time he worked alongside his Dad, brother & sister in the family business selling ice cream. Dad served in the British army when he was of age during WW2. (One of Dad’s claims to fame was he chauffeured a General around in one of Rommell’s captured cars in North Africa).

After the war Dad returned home and returned to selling ice cream. Living in Bishop Auckland, in 1952 he married the love of his life Angela, and had five children.

Aged 95, Dad had a great life, spending most of his years serving ice cream to the people of County Durham, in particular Bishop Auckland & Crook. At the age of 75 Dad retired from the family business, for the second and final time. Dad later moved to Newcastle, where he enjoyed a long and happy retirement.

Dad was a very special man, devoted to his work, family and friends. He leaves a huge hole in all our hearts and lives, and will be sadly missed every day.

RIP Dad ❤️

Thank you for allowing me to come into your home daily and giving me the pleasure of looking after you. Your wicked sense of humour always had us carers laughing. We will all remember your stories, especially “when I were in puna” and your love for fish and chips. Frank you truly were a gentleman and we are honoured to have known you. RIP Frank. We hope you are enjoying a glass of red wine up there.

All our love Carly and all of the Careline team.

A lovely man who worked hard and served his community well. He truly did have the gift of making everyone with whom he came in contact laugh and feel good. Thank you for your service. RIP. Love never ends (Corinthians)

Ad un uomo gentile e divertente,un padre affettuoso,un marito amorevole.riposa in pace.un abbraccio a tutti voi.
Amelia e Nathalie