Frank A. Manzullo

Frank A. Manzullo, 83, a lifelong Rockford resident, died on February 28, 2026, while vacationing in Kissimmee, Florida. Born May 17, 1942, son of Frank A. Manzullo, Sr. and Catherine DiGirolamo Manzullo. Frank graduated from Rockford East High School in 1960, attended Rockford School of Business, and married Mary Ann Gagnon on February 3, 1968.

Frank was a soldier, inventor, trademark holder, environmentalist, master restauranteur, teacher, and public servant, growing up in a hard-working family devoted to helping others. In 1948, Frank’s parents opened Frank’s Port Market on 11th Street in southeast Rockford. Here, the Manzullos helped hundreds of families who traveled from post WW II Eastern Europe seeking a new start in America, and people coming from the drought-stricken south in search of jobs in Rockford’s factories. Frank’s family moved to New Milford in 1953 and opened The Shady Mill Drive-In in 1955. In 1964, on Frank’s suggestion, the family converted their home into Manzullo’s Famous Italian Restaurant. Known for its unforgettable food, cozy atmosphere, and lively bar, it soon became an area landmark. Many families celebrated special occasions and ordinary weekends in the little 14-table restaurant. Manzullo’s closed on New Year’s Eve in 2005 after 42 years, bringing the years of memories to a gentle close.

Frank was always interested in cars and belonged to several clubs, including the Good 'Ole Boys Car Club and The Gentlemen Car Club. He loved tinkering and cruising in his 1932 Ford roadster. Frank is recognized by the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) for changing Illinois law to accommodate street rods/custom vehicles on roads and highways, which legislation served as a template for the rest of the U.S. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves, contributing stateside during the Vietnam War. He holds a patent on an extended postal box holder, Rocky Mountain Post Co. and a trademark on “Spagizza.” Frank ran an online antique business, collected model cars, and relished yard sales for items to restore.

He was active in local politics, serving as Rockford Township Trustee (2009–2025) and Winnebago County’s longest serving Precinct Committeeman. He taught bartending at Rock Valley College. He also served on the New Milford Cemetery Board and on the Zoning Committee. He worked for Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, organizing thousands of volunteers for roadside cleanups and recycling drives. He and his wife, Mary Ann, were honored as delegates to President Reagan’s nomination and attended his 1981 inauguration. He was a former member of St. Edward Catholic Church, serving on several committees there, and was a current member of St. Rita Catholic Church. Frank was devoted to his faith, family, and community, always working to improve the world. He enjoyed simple things, was a great storyteller, and treasured the gift of one’s time.

Survivors include his children, Mary Catherine (Brian) Flynn and Frank A. Manzullo, III; grandchildren, Anna Flynn, Joe Flynn, and Francesca Manzullo; brother, Don (Freda) Manzullo; nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Drs. John and DeAnna Gordon, Jeff and Jodi Smith, Tom Smith, and many other family and friends. He is also lovingly survived by his long-time companion, Judy Bufalo, her daughters, Paula Berg and Michelle Bufalo, and grandchildren Mikayla Bufalo, Gianna, and Mia Berg. Predeceased by his parents and wife, Mary Ann.

Mass of Christian Burial is at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 16, 2026, at St. Rita Catholic Church. Burial follows at New Milford Cemetery. Visitation is 2:00–5:00 p.m. Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL, and from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral at the church on Monday. Any “car guys” are welcomed to drive their classic cars in Frank’s funeral procession on Monday, weather permitting.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rock Valley College Foundation, Manzullo Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61114. https://41860.thankyou4caring.org/www.rockvalleycollege.edu/Give2, If donating online, please select the Manzullo Memorial Scholarship from the drop-down designation menu. Share condolences and memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.