Frank Lebenick, 89, of New Berlin, NY, passed away on September 2, 2021 at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca NY after a brief illness. Frank was born on May 3, 1932 in New York City to John and Mary Lebenick. He grew up on the family dairy farm in New Berlin, NY and graduated New Berlin Central School in 1950.
Upon graduation Frank joined the Navy and served for four years on the destroyer, USS. Kidd, and later the submarine, USS Greenfish. After serving during the Korean war, he attended Michigan College of Mining and Technology with degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering. His first job was at RCA Television but after a few years he moved to New York City to pursue his passion for acting. He studied under Uta Hagan and performed in several off-broadway plays under the name of Frank Eben.
In the early 1970s, Frank returned to the family farm where he designed and built a wood burning furnace for his parents’ home. He founded the company, N-B Stove, which produced many furnaces for homes in the surrounding area over the next several decades. It is known by many that Frank could fix and build anything. His motto was, “Never fear for Frank is here!”
His hobbies included skiing, tennis, singing, ballroom dancing, and flying his own plane.
In 2003 Frank married Gail Haywood in New Berlin and they shared their retirement years in the family farmhouse.
Frank is predeceased by his parents, his wife Gail, his brother, John Lebenick, and sister, Mary Dispensa. He is survived by his sisters Josephine Melmer and Rosalie Lebenick; nieces Marilyn Dispensa and Carol (Joe) Menditto; nephews Robert Melmer and James Dispensa; grand-nephews Donato, Matteo, Joseph and Michael Mignone.
Calling hours are Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at the Dakin Funeral Home LP, 17 N. Main St., New Berlin, NY. A short graveside service with military honors will begin at Fairview Cemetery shortly afterwards. |
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Barbie Potter
New Berlin New York
Michael Harvey
German, NY
Sorry to hear of Frank's passing. We have a furnace he built and installed in 1985. Still going strong after 36 years!
James R Simcoe
Norwich
I am sad to hear of Frank's passing, please accept my condolences. He was an old friend I knew as one of the Ward family from the late 80s to the early aughts. He was a hard working, multitalented, thoughtful, and humble man. I have many memories of him from multiple dinners, gatherings and work projects. My mother said he was an excellent dancer. I have items in my home he made for me.
I tried to attend calling hours but I went to the wrong town! Peace be with you Frank, peace be with you.
Henry and Bonnie Carpenter
Norwich, NY
Remembering Frank brings back so many wild adventures that we shared…ski outings, tennis matches, canoeing down the Unadilla. We will miss him.
Edward Caple
Tampa
So sorry to hear, Frank has lost his many battles with illness; he sure was a fighter. My mom would be pleased, he made it for many more years after her. I learned a few things I did not know about Frank here; he was in the Navy and Korean conflict, and on a destroyer,same as my father; and had a plane like my grandfather. Small world. An interesting man from a better time perhaps; so many like him are leaving now. Small towns that breed good people; are becoming lost to us all.The smartest and most functional spouse my mom had; if only fate had met them younger I guess. I hope everyone there can find some peace; knowing that Frank has finally found peace himself. A long hard fought battle; to find it, but I think he was just tired of fighting, or just couldn't any more. Rest in peace Frank, you gave it a great run, old friend. I don't always say the right things; but at least I give it a try.I suspect no one, is really good at this kinda thing.
Mary Hanson
New Berlin
I will really miss you Frank, you were a very special person. I hope you are at peace now and with Gail. I will visit as often as I can. Love you buddy.
Gordon L Whitten
Delhi, NY / West Palm Beach, FL
Rest in peace my friend and classmate.
You were a unique, kind and gentle person with strong and admirable values.
We will miss you.
Beth Kendrick
Waitsfield, Vt
I am so sorry for your loss. Your uncle had a very interesting and varied life. May he rest in peace. Love, Beth Kendrick
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