Frank George Cookinham Sr.

Frank was born in Newport, RI on February 23, 1941, and was raised by his beloved mother Cecylia (Wojnar) Cookinham.

Mr. Cookinham spent his early years as a Chef at the Sportsman’s Restaurant (now called the Localz) and then retired after a long career as head Chef for Raytheon (Canteen Corporation) in Portsmouth, RI. In addition to his role as a chef, he had his own landscaping business for 40+ years. Once settled in New Hampshire, Frank kept busy by working part-time for Rocky Meadow Farm in Chichester. He enjoyed feeding the animals, hauling grain, caring for the cows and baby calves and keeping honeybees. Frank could outwork any 20 year old!

Frank always loved New Hampshire where he spent almost every weekend until he was able to move there full-time! He enjoyed spending time with his sister Barbara, his children and his grandchildren, . He spent his weekends at sporting games (soccer, hockey, gymnastics and horse-back riding). Frank kept in close contact with his daughter and grandchildren in Florida with countless hours on the phone and routine visits. He loved to hear all about their experiences with dancing, travel, swimming and debate. He was so proud of Albi graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in Chemical Engineering in 2023 and Mia graduating from Clemson University in Marketing in 2024.

Grampi/Poppy enjoyed this special time very much. The man loved to play cards, board games, Wii bowling, and working on home improvement project with his children. As he moved on in years Frank enjoyed time playing bingo at the Senior Center in Pittsfield, NH, driving around in his antique cars and attending local car shows.

His is survived by his beloved sister, Barbara Goularthiem, of Northwood; his daughter, Kimberly Manfredi of Ormond Beach Florida, grandchildren Albert Manfredi V, Mia Manfredi; his daughter Heidi Walton of Gilmanton, grandchildren Izaak Walton and Isabelle Walton; his son and Best Friend Frank Cookinham, Jr. and his wife Renee of Gilmanton Iron Works, grandchildren Jillian Cookinham and Genevieve (Geena) Cookinham; He also left behind Rexi, his German Sheppard companion. Frank was predeceased by his son Timothy Cookinham of Portsmouth RI.

Frank was a wonderful father, grandfather and a good man. He was always happy and kind to everyone. He will be dearly missed by all.

Calling hours will be Friday, March 22nd from 5 – 7 p.m. at Bennett Funeral Home located at 209 N. Main Street, Concord, NH; Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 23rd at 10:00 a.m. at St. Andre’ Bessette Parish, 277 Union Avenue, Laconia, NH.

Condolences, info and directions are available at www.dignitymemorial.com