To the Friends and Fishing Buddies of Frank Florio

[TheFlorioFamily]

To the Friends and Fishing Buddies of Frank Florio,

Words can hardly express the gratitude and comfort I felt on Saturday night when the Gambler pulled into its slip. I was very hesitant about coming to the dock for several reasons…. I have not gone down there since the funeral because the dock and the boats were so much a part of Frankie. It really hurts to be there, where he would hang every morning “checking on the ocean.” For those of you lucky enough to spend time shooting the bull, discussing the catch, the wind, the regulations etc., you know what I mean. It was what he loved almost as much as his family, sometime probably more.

6+ months and the pain is very raw. I was also hesitant because I have found myself in such a tough situation. All of my hesitations were immediately put to rest as these wonderful fishermen and crew got off the boat talking about Frankie in such a warm and wonderful that it immediately melted my heart. I thank each and every one of you, whether you fished or not, just for being a part of his life and enjoying his warmth and laughter and in part helping him take care of me.

With Heartfelt Gratitude,

Sharon Florio
Shachef2@yahoo.com

[dfish28]

You got my tears for the night. My condolences to you and your family. Remember if you ever need anything, reach out... We're here for you, fishermen stick together.

[JonDevin]

Sharon,

Frank meant a lot to many of us. He'll never be forgotten by us. Personally he is always with me when I'm out on the ocean. Thank you for sharing him with us.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Never met Frank but I've heard stories of many who have. A real tribute to the type of person he was when people go out of their way to pay tribute to him while living, not only when he had passed.

God bless your family and thanks for taking care of Frank while he was with us here. People like him have to have a solid family foundation of support to be such lights to the rest of us..

May he rest in peace, his memories live on and may we, you and your family rejoice in the memories he left behind for us.

[Foul Hook]

I loved fishing with Frank. I also couldn't wait to see him on Monday or any day morning at Quick Chek. Frank would share the weekend stories of the catches he and Capt. John would put together. He was a wealth of knowledge. He could also keep you in stiches. I think Jon said it best . Thank You for sharing him with us! Sorely missed and never forgotten. Tony Sanborn

[Bucktailboys.com]

Sharon,
I am not sure if Frank's brother shared this email with you so I will...

I know that the Gambler is having a fundraiser fishing trip in memory of Frank. First, I must say that he was an amazing man that I will truly miss. I fished with him on the Golden Touch many times and being a school administrator, he would talk to me about his daughter (Beth) for hours and we would just shoot the breeze all day. When we decided to try the "Bucktail" fishing tackle business, I will never forget Frank reaching out to us wishing us luck, offering to give samples to his friends and he was one of our first customers. He would ask about my dad to see how he was feeling and when I had some health issues this past year, he stopped by the boat in his UPS uniform, gave me a big hug and asked how I was doing with my treatments. As you know he was a fine MAN. My only regret was not knowing him longer. He will always be in my heart and watching over us as we fish.

Keefe

[hartattack]

I was disappointed but understood when brother Dan told me you probably wouldn't be meeting the Gambler when we docked. I was thrilled when Dan shouted "Sharon's here!" when we did get back. It was a pleasure to meet you and a privilege to know and fish with Frank. I laughed to myself after reading Keefe's UPS uniform comment - Frank would always be joking "what can Brown do for you?". He will always be remembered . . .

[GDubya07]

Thank you for letting us fish and get to know Frank - It was an honor and a privilege - he always made me laff , taught me how to fish and just a great guy.

My condolences once again

George A. Push