By Brian Zanzonico
Whether its sponsoring the Franklin Square Little League, or being a member of the Order of Sons of Italy in America, Knights of Columbus and the Franklin Square Historical Society, or active in St. Catherine of Sienna Church, the owner of the Franklin Funeral Home always finds time in his schedule - and generosity in his heart - to help make the community a better place.
A long time member of the Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce, Caracciolo was recently named its 2006 Small Businessperson of the Year. Owner of the Franklin Funeral Home since 1978, this is the first time he has been so honored.
"[Franklin Square Chamber president] Frank Cutolo called me and told me about a month ago," Caracciolo, 65, a member of the chamber's board of directors, said in an interview. "It's a great honor."
Born in Brooklyn, Caracciolo originally planned to become a teacher, and earned a master's degree in secondary education at the City University of New York to teach Social Studies. But his true calling was the family tradition of funeral service, which began with his grandfather. He was director of several funeral homes in Brooklyn before moving on to Franklin Square in 1978.
Caracciolo works along side son, Bruno M., a certified public accountant by trade, and one of three children Caracciolo has with his wife of 43 years, Maria. The Caracciolos also have a son, Vincent, a daughter, Danielle, and seven grandchildren.
"I wanted to work for myself in my community," said Bruno M., a resident of Franklin Square. "And to work with my father."
As a member of the Sons of Italy, Caracciolo has served as vice president, trustee, convention delegate, and feast co-chair. He has been a member of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Mutual Aid Society, St. Catherine of Sienna Liturgy Committee, Elks Club, Catholic Cemetery Guild and the Nassau-Suffolk Funeral Director's Association.
On Oct. 13, Caracciolo will be honored at the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce 2006 Small Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury.
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