Obituary of Francis P. Zygarowski

Francis P. Zygarowski, A veteran of the Korean War, passed away at the Woburn Nursing Center on Friday, May 8, 2015.The beloved husband of 53 years of Joan M. (Milone), he was 81 years old. Frank was born, raised and educated in Ware. He was the son of the late Sylvester and Catherine Zygarowski. As a young child Frank showed an interest in Music and learned how to play the accordion as well as a number of other instruments. Frank attended Berkley School of Music. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army where he obtained the rank of CPL. Frank was the recipient of the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He served from 1953 – 1955. In 1957 he began another Tour of Duty with the United States Navy that ended in 1961. He was a member of both the Army and Navy Bands and traveled throughout the World. Frank and Joan settled in Burlington where they would raise their three sons. Music became Frank’s career and he taught accordion lessons out of his home. At times he had up to 40 students learning from him. Frank traveled the world with his music. He played in Nantucket, Bermuda and the Worlds Fair in Sweden to name a few places. Frank used these trips for his family to enjoy a vacation while he was working. He played at weddings and other social events as well as at many clubs throughout the world. He also met a few celebrities the most special one being Maria Von Trapp. Frank and his family own a time share in Stow Vermont on the Von Trap Family Lodge property. One day Frank was having a drink at the Lodge and struck up a conversation with a woman who was having a problem with her accordion. Frank offered to meet her later in the day and repair it. Little did he realize that the woman was Maria Von Trapp. They would form a friendship that lasted many years with Frank playing the accordion and Maria joining him in song while she played her accordion. Frank was also offered the opportunity to play in Marilyn Monroe’s traveling band – an offer he refused. Frank was blessed to live 81 years and was blessed to have a wonderful 53 year marriage to his wife Joan and be a part of his children and grandchildren’s lives. He also touched many lives through his music. He was the loving father of Robert of Tyngsboro, Edward & his partner Beth Foley of Tyngsboro and Karl & his wife Nicole of Burlington, VT. Proud grandfather of Breanna, Jillian, Neil & Connor Foley and Justin, Penelope,Zuzu & Juniper Zygarowski. Funeral Services will be private. Memorials in Frank’s name may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, PO Box 9523,Wilton, NH 03086