Frank N. Gambardella

Frank N Gambardella, 94, of Dania Beach, Florida passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 with his family by his side. He was born to the late Salvatore and Madeline (DeMaio) Gambardella on January 22, 1932 in New Haven, Connecticut. He was predeceased by his wife Jean Gambardella in 2023 and his eldest son, Frank Gambardella in 1994.

He and his family moved to Jacksonville, Florida and then Hollywood, Florida in 1993. Frank and Jean were married on September 7, 1959 and lived in East Haven, CT prior to moving to Florida. While in the New Haven area, Frank and some close friends (Mike, Mike and Gabe) decided they were going to go into the construction business and built a home on Massachusetts Avenue in New Haven, CT. At a very young age, he was taught how to play the piano and accordion at the “request” of his father, Salvatore. His teacher, Jerry Guidice was very well known in both New York and New Haven at that time. Frank, along with his father entertained at various church functions i.e. weddings, anniversaries and many “Italian feasts” in the New Haven area.  Frank and his dad Salvatore were accompanied by Frank’s sister Madeline (Dolly) who was a vocalist.

Frank is survived by two children; Elaine Gambardella-Martin (Ron) and their son Ryan; and Steven Gambardella-(Kaki) and their children Steven and Gavin. Frank is also survived by his sister Marie Gamberdella-Eimmerman (Jim).

Frank served in the U.S Army, and was a proud member of the US Army Band and was requested by the Army to learn, and play the bagpipes for many special occasions. Prior to going to Florida and after serving in the US Army, Frank opened a music and instruction store called the House of Music in West Haven, CT.  He was a music instructor for many school students and adults while entertaining the local high school students and playing ping pong in his store. It was a very fun time. Many of his relatives would stop by for some fun and listen to great music. He was an avid New York Yankee fan and Joe DiMaggio was his all-time favorite player. During this time, he met and married Jane (Jean) who came from Scotland. They both enjoyed jazz, the standards and family, particularly the holidays. Not long after they married, Frank, Jr. was born. Soon after that, Frank was asked to go to Jacksonville, Florida for six weeks and play at the Ponte Vedra Country Club. While there he was asked to teach music at the University.   Upon moving to Hollywood, Florida, Frank entertained and met so many entertainers i.e. Mickey Rooney, Jackie Gleason, Yogi Berra, Frank Sinatra and many more.. He had many musician friends and always had music and family at his home in Hollywood. His relatives would visit from Connecticut and Frank was at the piano while many aunts and relatives sang along. He entertained along with his musicians at the Fountain Blue, Eden Roc and volunteered with both church and various organizations. Frank was an avid fisherman who loved crabbing and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11:00am, at Nativity Catholic Church, 5220 Johnson Street. Hollywood, FL.  Immediately following the mass will be a Celebration of Life gathering at Tropical Acres Steakhouse, 2500 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL. The family asks relatives and friends to join them in remembering Frank and share favorite memories and joyful moments.