Community Corner
Family of Somers Man: 'Touched by Outpouring of Support from Community'
Frank Katz – a loving husband and father of 12 – suddenly passed away due to an unknown medical condition on Nov. 11 in Somers while walking to the Golden's Bridge train station.
The family of Frank Katz, who suddenly passed away on Nov. 11 due to an unknown medical condition while walking to the Golden's Bridge train station, has been touched by the outpouring of support from the community, the man's oldest son told Patch this week.
"The donations and condolences are coming in from many people we know and many people that we don't, including many from the local community," said Jonathan Katz, 28, the oldest of 12 children.
Katz, 60, worked as a pension actuary in Manhattan and walked to the train station, which was two miles away from his Somers home. A passing motorist spotted Katz, who was lying on the side of the road.
His family said he was the main breadwinner of the household. Now his wife Carol and 12 children, who range from ages 8 to 28, face a significant financial hardship.
"Although we are reluctant to ask anyone for help, any donation from local residents would be greatly appreciated, as it is greatly needed," his son Jonathan said.
The family has set up the Frank Katz Memorial Fund at Chase Bank and Somers, along with an online account. The Fund has already accumulated close to $5,000.
"We were all shocked and heartbroken by his death," Katz's family wrote on the memorial fund website.
Katz had to cash in his life insurance several years ago when he was out of work for a year and a half and wasn't able to catch up, his family said.
"My dad was a smart, caring man who lived for his family," his son Jonathan said. "He was strong-willed and generous. That is how we want him to be remembered."
Katz and his family lived on Long Island for many years, but moved to Newtown, Conn. in 2011. They moved to Somers several months ago. Katz had also worked in the World Trade Center, but stayed home on 9/11 because his wife had to attend a PTA meeting.
He leaves behind his wife Carol and his children Jonathan, 28; Eric, 27; Gregg, 24; Elaina, 23; Marissa, 20; Corey, 18; Benjamin, 16; Bryan, 15; Joshua, 13; Zachary, 11; Chad, 10; and Brielle, 8.
To donate to the The Frank Katz Memorial Fund, click here.
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