Obituary of Frank Wesley Triarico

Beloved friend to so many, Frank Triarico passed away from lung cancer on July 30, 2022.  

Frank was born on Dec 10th, 1946, to Frank and Margaret Triarico, and grew up in New Jersey.  

He shared that from an early age he was a collector, finding interesting things to bring home and hide under his bed. Another of his early passions was ice skating, which he practiced throughout high school.  

Frank went to cosmetology school and his first career was as a make-up artist in New York City during the creative time of the late 1960’s. Soon he found his way to New Hope Pennsylvania where he took over a gift shop and began to incorporate antiques. There he began his lifelong career as an antiques dealer, buying at the local fairs and auctions, and his business became successful. 

Previously, his younger brother Randy had moved to Santa Cruz California, and when his parents retired, they planned to move out here. Frank decided to join them and so in 1977 he began his business here and was one of the most highly regarded and respected antiques dealers in Santa Cruz. For honesty and integrity, his name came first.  

He opened his shop, “Frank’s Antiques”, about 40 years ago. It was a shop that had a little bit of everything, Victoriana, fine jewelry, textiles, glass, china, clocks, advertising, Americana, country, and his beloved specialty sterling silver, all of the highest quality. His eye for arrangement and display was outstanding and it was truly a shop of treasures!  

Being a shopkeeper was Frank’s great passion and over the years he formed special friendships with collectors, customers, and many of the local dealers. Later in life he enjoyed his time playing racquet ball with his partner Bill, gardening, going to Alameda Point to hunt for treasures, and spending time with his friends. He was the best kind of friend; loving, fun, loyal and generous. His spirit and memory will live on.  

Preceded in death by his father Frank Sr., mother Marge, and brother Randy. 

He is survived by old and dear friends Dave and Leo, numerous cousins, and his partner of many years, William Lattanzio.   

Frank, we love you, and thank you, for all the years of friendship, love and laughter!