Francis A. Badolato

    Francis A. Badolato, 90, of Rome, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Health Hospital in Syracuse, New York.

    Francis, affectionately known as “Doc,” was born in Rome on November 11, 1935, the son of Mary and Dominick Badolato. He graduated from Rome Free Academy and, following high school, began working alongside his father in the shoe shop at Rome State School. He continued his career with the Central New York Developmental Disabilities Services Office as an adaptive equipment specialist until his retirement. Francis was a member of St. John the Baptist Church.

   On August 3, 1957, Francis married the love of his life, Doris Wiethake, at St. Joseph’s Church in Scotia, New York. Together, they shared 68 years of marriage and built a life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. Their home, affectionately known as “907,” was the heart of many wonderful family gatherings and happy times with their three daughters and extended family.

   Doc was passionate about golf and played whenever he could, right up until his passing.  Francis was also a talented artist and craftsman, skilled in drawing, painting, carpentry, and hanging wallpaper. In earlier years, he also enjoyed hunting and snowmobiling. He took great pride in watching his children and grandchildren participate in athletic, theatrical, and artistic events, always enjoying the opportunity to support them. Francis loved traveling with Doris, his family, and his siblings, as well as relaxing in the sunshine. He was a natural storyteller who loved sharing stories with anyone willing to listen, and he especially enjoyed gathering for coffee with “the boys.” These simple pleasures, along with the time spent with those he loved, brought him great happiness throughout his life.

    Francis is survived by his three daughters, Elaine (Andrew) Arthur of West Simsbury, Connecticut; Sheryl (Robert) Janes of Lee Center; and Donna Badolato of Lee Center.

He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Steven (Jade) Eakins, Kyle (Lianne) Eakins, Ryan Arthur, Neil Janes, Garrett (Clare) Janes, Abigail Janes and her fiancé, Joshua Geller, Dr. Catherine Rood, and Caroline Rood; as well as his cherished great-grandchildren, Remington Eakins, Finley Eakins, Rory Eakins, Mari Janes, Knox Eakins, Mercer Eakins, and Callan Janes.  Francis is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Rose Stote of Grove City, Pennsylvania, and Betty Lou Scanlan of Tampa, Florida; his brother-in-law, Henry Wiethake, and Henry’s wife, Mary, of Silverthorne, Colorado; and many beloved nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly and who were always there for him.

   He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Doris; his parents, Mary and Dominick Badolato; his parents-in-law, Rose and Henry Wiethake; his brothers, Samuel (Catherine) Badolato, Dominick (Angela) Badolato, and Bernard Badolato; his brothers-in-law, John Scanlan and Jack Stote; and his niece, Maria Peters.

    The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his companion caregivers, Bridget, Carol, Shannon, Lucy and Emily, who provided Doc with loving care, companionship, and friendship following the passing of Doris. Their kindness and support meant so much to him and his family. The family also wishes to express a special thank-you to his dear friend, James Kenny, who faithfully checked in on Doc and held a special place in his life.

   Francis will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for golf, his gift for storytelling, and the many happy memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love, laughter, and stories he leaves behind will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

   Funeral Services will be held at 11 am on Friday, November 6, 2026 at St. John the Baptist Church, 210 E. Dominick Street.  Calling hours 10-11am prior to the Mass.  The family will greet visitors after the Mass.  Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery, Rome.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bottini Funeral Home, 120 W. Embargo Street.  

    In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Doris A. Badolato Memorial Scholarship fund at the Rome Chapter of Dollars for Scholars.

   You may view the obituary and leave a message of sympathy online at:  www.bottinifuneralhome.com