Wentworth Institute of Technology professor
MELROSE — Francis E. “Frank” Nestor, 76, a resident of Melrose, passed away on Tuesday, May 12 at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital.
Francis, known by all as “Frank” was born on December 22, 1938 in Lynn, and was one of five children of the late Francis and Kathleen (Henry) Nestor. He was raised in Lynn, graduated from Lynn English High School, and received his B.S. degree in 1961 from UMass–Amherst. He taught mathematics for several years before returning to the classroom to receive his M.A. in mathematics from Boston College, and later his M.A. in engineering from Clarkson University. On February 23, 1963, he married Carol Lillie and they settled in Randolph to raise two children.
Frank was an intelligent and highly respected teacher at Wentworth Institute of Technology for 46 years. Through Frank’s 46 years as a professor, he played a part in helping many students and athletes reach their potential. He was a natural teacher with an innate ability to connect with students in a positive way.
He proudly watched as many students entered Wentworth with limited life experience and completed their studies ready to embark on their working career. Gifted with the ability to relate to his students, Frank was also a beloved basketball coach for several years at Wentworth. For his successful coaching career, he was inducted into the Wentworth Athletic Hall of Fame. Whether in the classroom or on the basketball court, Frank made a difference through his ability to teach and mentor young people. He tutored many students in math, basketball, and life, sometimes all at the same time. For his dedication to scholastics and athletics, Frank was recognized with several honors and awards during his tenure at Wentworth.
Another passion in life that brought him much joy was horse racing. He often travelled to Suffolk Downs or Saratoga Springs to watch the races, and place what he considered to be well calculated bets. His mathematical training helped in some cases, but in many others it was just a valiant effort. He enjoyed the races, and enjoyed the presence of his family with him. For many years, Frank enjoyed daily swims with his friends at the Melrose YMCA, where he also served on the Board of Directors for several years.
Frank’s life was characterized by a deep devotion to his family above all else. He had many fond memories from travels with his wife Carol across the United States and throughout Europe. He was a proud and loving father, never missing an important event of his sons, and cherished many family holidays and get-togethers. When his own children had grown, he became a doting and loving grandfather of three grandchildren and never missed a chance to cheer them on from the sidelines. His love for family will continue in their hearts and minds and he will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Frank was the beloved husband of Carol (Lillie) Nestor, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Francis B. Nestor and his husband John Krynick of Philadelphia;, and Matthew J. Nestor and his wife Joann of Reading. He was the dear brother of Kathleen Torname of The Villages, Florida; Delores Evon of Exeter, Rhode Island; and the late Lawrence Nestor and John Nestor. He was the cherished grandfather of Samantha, Miranda, and Liam Nestor.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Frank’s life at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose during visiting hours on Thursday, May 14 and for his Funeral Service at the Robinson Funeral Home on Friday, May 15 at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. A celebration of his life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 70 W. Emerson St., Melrose on Saturday, May 30 at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Frank to Wentworth Athletics – Leopard Club, Wentworth Institute of Technology, 550 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115-5998. For directions, online tribute or to share a memory, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
