Son, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend. Many roles for a life well lived. Born in Philadelphia, PA in 1929. Orphaned at a young age, an only child, and on his own early in life he enlisted in the Army at age 17 and was stationed at Walter Reed. Upon being honorably discharged from the service he began working for the United States Postal Service in the mailroom at the main DC postal headquarters. It was during this time that he meet and married his wife of 69 years on March 17, 1951. Yep. St. Patrick’s day. Not bad for an Irishman. Then along came daughter Kathy followed by Audrey 17 months later.
Throughout his working life, he had one employer, the United States Postal Service. To sum up his successful work career he rose from a position in the mailroom to the appointed job of Assistant Postmaster General of Rates and Classifications. Under his well educated and specialized watch the Post Office was consistently kept in the black during his administration. Though he worked many long hours, numerous weekends and traveled internationally on business, he always put family first. Whether it be events the girls were involved in, league bowling with his wife and relatives, or square dancing you could always count on him to juggle events to be with family. His commitment to his wife, Audrey, is certainly one to be admired and can serve as a model to other married couples. Grandfather, as he was often referred to, was also very involved in the Methodist Church over the years. That involvement included working on live shows performed by the church, committee work, and an active participation in the Men’s Club helping out with community breakfasts. In addition, though he did not have sons, he was a Boy Scout leader for many years. His early days as a Sea Scout contributed to his love of sailing and the water. He could often be found researching the family genealogy, honing his extensive history knowledge, or revising his stamp collection. Jigsaw puzzles provided hours of quality family time gathered around his dining room table. He also enjoyed a good game of poker with his buddies. As he was a well rounded man, home repairs and car maintenance were included in his repertoire.
Grandfather took great pride in his daughters and when the grandsons, Robert, Andrew and Matthew arrived on the scene that pride extended to them. He was at numerous activities they were involved with throughout their lives. He proudly watched his three grandsons receive their diplomas from high school and college. And his circle of love widen as wives were taken and a baby was born. The smile on his face as he held, Amy, his great-granddaughter was a testament to the depths of his love for family.
Grandfather had a personality type unmatched by many. Quiet, strong, honest, generous to a fault and understanding. He embodied respect, admiration and love.
Son, Husband, Father, Father-in-Law, Grandfather, Great-grandfather, Uncle, Friend. For 90 years, a life well lived. One that has left a lasting positive impression on all who knew him. He will be missed; he will not be forgotten. Rest In Peace Grandfather.
Survived by his loving wife, Audrey McCaffrey, adoring daughters, Kathy Hildebrandt (John), Audrey Frace (Gary), devoted grandsons Robert Hildebrandt (Anna), Andrew Frace, Matthew Frace (Caitlin), infant great-granddaughter (Amy) and a wonderful array of loving nieces and nephews.
Burial services will be private at Norbeck Memorial Park, Olney, MD. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory can be made to Oakdale United Methodist Men, ATTN: Ira Branson, Treasurer 3425 Emory Church Road Olney, MD 20832 Road
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