Francis C. Vicino, 84

WAREHAM -   Francis C. Vicino, 84, of Wareham, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, family devotion, community service, and friendship that will continue for generations.

Born in Attleboro, Massachusetts, on May 15, 1942, Fran was the son of the late James and Rose (Cavallo) Vicino. He spent his life building not only a successful business, but also lasting relationships throughout the community he loved.

Fran was the beloved husband and high school sweetheart of Diane (Hagerty) Vicino, with whom he shared a loving marriage of 64 years filled with love and treasured memories.

Growing up in Mansfield, Fran was an avid football player at Mansfield High School and a proud member of the 1959 State Championship football team. He also earned numerous gymnastics awards.

One of Fran's greatest sources of pride was his family's business, Hi-Way Concrete Products in Wareham. Alongside his brothers, he began working in the family business at a young age and later took over the company with them from their father and uncle in 1969. What began as a small manufacturing yard, where products were loaded onto trucks by hand with only a few employees, grew into a thriving and respected business over the next five decades. Through determination, vision, and an unwavering commitment to quality, Fran, his brothers, children, and extended family transformed the company into a regional leader featuring modern block manufacturing equipment, a fleet of delivery trucks, a large retail facility, and a dedicated team of more than 30 employees. Even twenty years after his retirement, Fran remained incredibly proud of the company's continued growth, including the expansion to a second location in Dartmouth, now operated by the next generation of the Vicino family.

Beyond his business accomplishments, Fran was deeply committed to the Wareham community. He generously volunteered his time with the Wareham Conservation Committee, the Wareham Redmen, the Lions Club, and the Social Harmony Lodge. He also maintained a lifelong interest in politics and enjoyed attending dinners and events where he had opportunities to meet and spend time with United States Presidents, Governors, and other elected officials.

While Fran worked tirelessly throughout his life, he also knew how to enjoy the rewards of his hard work. In retirement, he embraced the simple pleasures that brought him happiness. He took great pride in maintaining his swimming pool, tending to his large vegetable garden, and spending time with Diane, the love of his life. Together, they found their paradise in Maui, Hawaii, where they returned year after year to their timeshare. Surrounded by friends and the beauty of the islands, they created countless memories and enjoyed the life they had built together.

One of Fran's greatest joys in retirement was the monthly family dinners, bringing together those he loved most. He treasured those gatherings and the opportunity to have his family together in one place, sharing laughter, stories, and making memories.

Above all else, Fran was a family man. Whether at work, at home, in his garden, hosting family dinners, or relaxing on a beach in Maui, his greatest joy came from being surrounded by the people he loved. His generosity, wisdom, work ethic, and unwavering devotion to family left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Fran will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud Nonno and Great-Nonno, successful businessman, dedicated community member, mentor, and loyal friend. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the business he helped build, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable life.

Fran is survived by his loving children, Fran Vicino Jr. and his wife Dorothy of Wareham, Kristine and her husband Jeff Monast of East Wareham, and daughters Marie and Denise of Stoughton. He was a proud and devoted Nonno to Kyle and his wife Ashley of Wareham, Kayla and her husband Adam Blount of West Boylston, Ryan and Renee of East Wareham, and Mason and Lydia of Stoughton. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching his family grow and flourish. He was especially proud of his great-grandchildren, Nolan, Wesley, and Cooper, with a fourth great-grandchild expected to arrive in August.

He is also survived by his sister Donna and her husband Tom Stringer of Wareham; his sister-in-law Kathy of Wareham; his sister-in-law Joyce and her husband Bob Hammond of Port Charlotte, Florida; and his brother-in-law Jack of Attleboro, Massachusetts. He was predeceased by his brothers, Robert and James Vicino, and his sister-in-law, Frances.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt love, gratitude, and appreciation to the many caregivers who supported Fran throughout his journey, especially Lauren, Jaliesa, and Theresa. We would also like to thank the wonderful team at Southcoast Health at Home Hospice, Laura, Courtney, Lori, and Susan. Your compassion, kindness, and dedication brought comfort not only to Fran, but to his entire family. We are forever grateful for the care you provided.

Visiting hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at Chapman Funerals & Cremations – WAREHAM, 2599 Cranberry Hwy., Wareham.

His funeral will be held at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 from the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m. in St. Patrick’s Church, 94 High St., Wareham.  Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Wareham.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Southcoast Health at Home, 200 Mill Rd., Fairhaven, MA 02719, please write “In memory of Francis Vicino” in the comment section.

For directions or to leave a message of condolence, visit: www.chapmanfuneral.com.