Frank J. Philopena, Jr., 90, died quietly at home on August 24, with his family by his side. He was born in New London, Connecticut, and was married to the love of his life, Lois Thompson Philopena, sharing fifty-one years and seven children together. Frank was an Army veteran of World War II, arriving on the beaches of Normandy as a member of the replacement troops sent in the day following D-Day. He, along with his comrades, continued to drive towards Germany, fighting through to the Battle of the Bulge. Though quiet about his years in the war, he was very proud of his role in protecting the United States. He spent his career as a senior traffic engineer for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, but saw his biggest job as helping his wife raise their seven children, teaching them all the important things in life, from baking bread to making spaghetti sauce, from fixing a leak, to learning to woodwork. Frank leaves behind his children and their families, including Beth and John Urbanetti, Cathy and Jason Limansky, LouAnn Downey Philopena, James Philopena, Paul Philopena, John Philopena, Marie Philopena, and Ed and Michelle Philopena. He also leaves eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He is survived by one brother, Richard Philopena of Groton. Besides his wife, he was predeceased by his son, Frank J. Philopena III. In moments like these, it is important to make note of special people, and in the final years of his life they included his son-in-law Jason who cared for him on a daily basis for the last two years of his life, his granddaughter Caroline, who always made him smile, and Jordan, who provided many hours of conversation and care, and who once again gave him the opportunity to teach what is important in life. You all made his life better, and we will forever be grateful. Family and friends may call at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center St., Manchester, on Friday, August 28th, from 5:00-7:00pm. A memorial service will be held at 7:00pm. Burial will be in the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ. For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.