Published in the June 15, 2018 edition
SAUGUS — Frank P. Rinfret, 90, President and Owner of East Coast Electronics and resident of Saugus, passed away peacefully at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, June 5, 2018.
Born in Boston on December 19, 1927, he was one of two sons of the late Francis R. Rinfret and Mildred (McWade) Rinfret. Frank was raised in Medford and graduated from Medford Vocational School. After graduation, Frank and four friends from his graduating class enlisted in the US Navy during WWII. Frank and his classmates served together on the USS John R. Pierce and remained friends throughout their lives.
On May 3, 1952, Frank was married to Barbara Geary at Gate of Heaven Church in South Boston, and they settled in Melrose to raise a family of seven daughters. In 1959, Frank established East Coast Electronics Co. Inc. in Medford, a company specializing in the installation, and distribution of sound and communications equipment. Frank grew the business through his determined hard work, and a dedication to getting the job done the right way. Still actively managing the company just two weeks ago, Frank was intricately involved in the business nearly 60 years after opening. A leader in the communications field, East Coast Electronics installed complete sound systems for churches, schools, airports, train stations, and other major events and businesses. Frank was very proud of “the shop” and dedicated his working life to ensuring his customers were satisfied.
A Medford native, Frank was very involved with the Medford community. He was a Past President of Medford Rotary Club, a recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow, maintained a perfect attendance record for over 50 years, and was awarded a Key to the City from the Mayor of Medford. He served as President of the Medford Chamber of Commerce, and was a member of Salem Street Business Association.
A lifelong and avid boater, Frank was a longtime member of Winthrop Yacht Club where he served as Past Commodore. Frank and Barbara enjoyed many weekends cruising with their family aboard “Girls Inc.” For 33 years, Frank and Barbara wintered in Jupiter, Florida where Frank served as President of the Ocean Trails Condo Association.
A natural leader and mentor, Frank established the Frank and Barbara Rinfret Gold K Scholarship at Merrimack College in 1986. Hoping to inspire young people, the award is given every year to a student majoring in electrical or civil engineering. Frank was a member of the Harold O. Young VFW Post #2394 in Melrose, the Winchester Elks, North Shore Old Car Club, and the Commodores Club of America.
Frank was very proud of his seven daughters, 15 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Hard working and skilled with his hands, Frank always tried to pass his knowledge and life experience onto his family. Frank’s strong work ethic, determination and self reliance will continue on in the lives of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed, but always lovingly remembered.
Frank was the beloved husband of Barbara P. (Geary) Rinfret with whom he shared 66 years of marriage. Devoted father of Patricia Milligan and her late husband James of Melrose, Francine Rinfret-Cronin and her husband David of Marblehead, Jeanne Rinfret of Malden, Denise Rinfret of Boston, Suzanne Rinfret of Somerville, Marie Rinfret of Winthrop, and the late Jacqueline Rinfret. Dear brother of the late Randolph Rinfret. Cherished grandfather of Frank Milligan, Joseph Milligan and his wife Jennifer, Peter Milligan and his wife Jennifer, Matthew Cronin and his wife Eve, Brianna Kolodny and her husband David, Courtney Cronin and her fiance Owen Murphy, Timothy Cronin and his wife Nicole, Melanie Ebert-Winberg and her husband Eric, Alicia Ebert-Wyatt and her husband Peter, Otavia Tropeano, Bianca Tropeano, Elvio Tropeano, Alessio Tropeano, Xavieria Tropeano, and Austin Silvestri. Loving great-grandfather of William, Noah, Oliver, Oisin, Caoimhe, Jonathan, Declan, Madison, Alexandria, and Cecily.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor of Frank’s life for visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Sunday, June 10 and again on Monday before leaving in procession to the Church of the Incarnation, 429 Upham St., Melrose for his funeral Mass. Interment with military honors presented by the US Navy at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. For online tribute, or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
