Frank Bánfi, Sr., 92, of Palm Coast, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 19, 2026, in Palm Coast.
Frank was born on April 15, 1934, in Csongrád, Hungary, to Mihály Bánfi and Erszébet Chukász. He attended college in Hungary before beginning a life defined by hard work, dedication, and love for his family.
On May 1, 1983, Frank married the love of his life, Cleo Kiss, in Newburgh, New York. Together they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion.
Frank proudly served in the Hungarian Army in Special Forces. Throughout his career, he worked as a skilled tool and die maker machinist and also earned a reputation as a talented carpenter, plumber, and electrician. He took great pride in working with his hands and creating things built to last.
He was a member of the Moose Club of Newburgh, New York, the Milton Engine Co. of Milton NY, Elks Lodge 2709, Wheels in Motion, Garden Club of Palm Coast, and Crankin “A’s” (Antique Car Club) of Daytona. Frank loved to tend to his garden and attending antique car club functions with his wife Cleo and friends. He spent hours in his home workshop designing car parts and building fixtures. He treasured spending time with his antique car club friends and was known as a true “man of all trades.”
Frank made Palm Coast his home since 1998 after moving from Marlboro, New York.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cleo Kiss Bánfi; his daughter, Catherine Bánfi-Wedel of California; his son, Frank Daniel Bánfi and partner Jennifer Beasley of Maine; his stepdaughter, Dawn Diono Schreiber and husband Donald of Milton, New York; and his stepson, Donato Diono and wife Christina of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, and his special niece Tammy Swenson of North Carolina.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Mihály Bánfi and Erzsébet Csukás, as well as two brothers and one sister.
Frank requested no formal services. His family asks that he simply be remembered as he was — with love.
The family of Mr. Bánfi entrusted his arrangements to Clymer Funeral Home & Cremation.
