Frank Porretta, 84, Opera Singer, Performer, St. John Church Choir Director

Francis Samuel Porretta II, a fixture at Mass at St. John Roman Catholic Church in Darien for decades, a lead tenor with major national opera companies and a performer in musical theater, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2015 at Stamford Hospital. He was 84 years old.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 47 years, Robbie; his dear brother George and his parents Clara and Francis Samuel I.

He is survived by his wife Martha; his 5 children Frank III, Anna, Greg, Matt and Roberta; their spouses Susan, Jennifer and Michael; his seven beautiful grandchildren Olivia, Roman, Ava, Luigi, Enzo, Sam, Ben and Franco; his loving brother Charlie and his many nieces and nephews.

A Darien resident since 1962, Frank Porretta had an extraordinary career as a lead tenor performing with major national opera companies including New York City Opera. Joan Sutherland and Beverly Sills were among his leading ladies. Frank opened both The Kennedy Center and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

He also had a very extensive career in musical theater. He starred in and made recordings of “Candide”, “The King and I”, “The Great Waltz” and “Brigadoon” among many others.

After he retired, he went on to a deeply fulfilling career as the choir director at St. John’s Church in Darien for over 40 years.

Frank’s talent for music and teaching touched so many lives, and he will be greatly missed. But his kindness, his compassion, his generosity and his playful spirit will live in many hearts.

The family will receive friends at the Edward Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Rd., Darien, on Friday, May 1, 2015 from 7 to 9 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held at St. John’s Church, 1986 Post Rd., Darien, on May 2, 2015 at 11 a.m.