Franklin "Frank" Thayer, 88, of Farmington, died Monday April 4, 2011 at Amberwoods of Farmington after a lengthy battle with ALS. Born January 5, 1923 in Hartford, son of the late John and Marion Brown he was a resident of Hartford for most of his life. He graduated from Bulkeley High School in 1942 and joined the US Army. Frank proudly served his country during World War II in Italy, Philippines and Japan. His division was first to arrive in Hiroshima August 1945 the day after H-Bomb was dropped. He retired from the US Postal Service in 1983. He enjoyed his retirement at his lakefront property at Andover Lake which he shared so generously with family and friends. He enthusiastically rooted from the NY Yankees, NY Giants, and UConn Women's basketball teams. Family was foremost in Frank's life. He is survived by his loving sister Judy Gilbert of South Windsor, his devoted cousin Trudy Thompson and her husband Peter of Farmington and their son Stephen and his wife Becky of NH, his nieces Cathy Cicero of South Windsor, Nancy Gilbert and her husband Wesley and their children Kevin, Crystal and Jenna. He is also survived by a special niece Lorrie D'Apice of Berlin and nephew John Thayer of Florida, and several other nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Frank was predeceased by his brothers, Charles, John, Richard, George and Forrest. Franks family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff of Amberwoods of Farmington for their excellent care, compassion and kindness provided to him and to Susan, Joanne, Katy and Jan from Masonicare Hospice East Hartford. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 9th, 10 am at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home 219 West Center St. Manchester followed by burial with military honors at West Cemetery Plainville. Frank's family will received friends from 9-10 am prior to a memorial service to celebrate his life. Contributions in his memory may be made to Masonicare Hospice 111 Founders Plaza East Hartford, CT 06108 or Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation Inc. 103 Old Iron Ore Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002. For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.