Franco Cognolato

On May 14, 2025, the world lost a remarkable man whose influence will resonate for generations. Franco Cognolato (Big Frank) passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Dina, and their children Marco (Veronique), Jessica (Austin), and Eric (Jenna). Known lovingly as Nonno, Frank was a proud grandfather to Clara, Henrik, Isaac, and Scarlett. He was predeceased by his father Gedeone (Jimmy), mother Onorina (Norina), and sister Julie. Frank will also be missed by his extended family in Canada and Italy, where he was a cherished uncle, great uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, nephew and friend.

Frank was a social and active member of his local and cultural communities. In his youth, he served as President of the Youth Group at the Famee Furlane Cultural Centre, where he met and fell in love with his wife of 42 years, Dina, when they were just teenagers. There, he built lifelong friendships, played matchmaker to many, and helped establish the Young Families program to celebrate his Friulan Italian heritage.

He and Dina went on to spend 36 years in King City, where they raised their three beautiful children and spent their days in hockey arenas, on soccer pitches, at school barbecues, and supporting fundraisers. Frank could often be found behind the grill, enthralled in deep conversation, or making others laugh—something that came naturally to him.

He will be fondly remembered as a respected figure in the meat industry, where Frank co-founded Paco Meat Products with his father, Jimmy, and later launched “Big Frank’s.” He remained deeply connected to the food service community, driven by a lifelong love of good food.

Frank spent summers at the family cottage in Woodland Beach and fishing trips in his secret spots across Georgian Bay, Lake Simcoe, and the Muskoka Lakes. A gifted musician, he could strum a mean guitar and could effortlessly belt out a tune. 

He was never one to rush through life. Frank was curious, a great listener, and always placed his family and friendships above all else. A man of faith, he was a proud Jehovah’s Witness who found joy in prayer and service with his Brothers and Sisters.

Frank will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, dry sense of humor, and loving spirit. Everyone was a friend to Frank, and family was his greatest treasure. Though he will be missed beyond words, his legacy lives on through memories and those he loved.

We love you, Frank. We’ll see you soon.

Memorial donations in Franco's name to his favourite charities would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Click HERE to donate to Autism Beyond 21

Click HERE to donate to Jehovah's Witnesses