BREAKING NEWS: Frank Manzullo, the beloved owner of Manzullo’s Famous Italian Restaurant in New Milford, has died at the age of 83. He passed away on February 28, 2023, while on vacation, leaving behind a legacy as a cherished restaurateur and dedicated community leader.
Manzullo’s impact on the Rockford area spanned decades, not only as a successful businessman but also as a township trustee and environmental advocate. Renowned for his anti-litter campaigns, he collaborated with organizations like Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful to promote the Great American Cleanup. His commitment to cleanliness stemmed from his upbringing, where he learned the importance of maintaining a tidy environment while working in his family’s restaurant.
In a poignant guest column for the Rockford Register Star, Manzullo shared his disdain for littering, stating, “I call those who litter lazy!” His passion for improving the community was evident, as he expressed frustration over the continued litter in Rockford and Winnebago County, urging residents to take pride in their surroundings.
Manzullo opened his iconic restaurant in 1964, converting his family home into a cozy dining establishment. For 41 years, he and his wife, Mary Ann, served beloved Italian dishes until their retirement on December 31, 2004. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t end there; he was also an inventor and held a patent for an “extended postal box holder.”
A U.S. Army veteran, Manzullo was known for his love of classic cars, particularly his 1932 Ford Roadster. He enjoyed collecting model cars and engaging in his online antique business. His contributions to the community extended beyond his restaurant, as he was an active member of local car clubs, sharing his passion with fellow enthusiasts.
Manzullo is survived by his longtime companion, Judy Bufalo, his children, Mary Catherine Flynn and Frank A. Manzullo, III, grandchildren, and his brother, Don Manzullo, a former Republican U.S. Congressman. His passing is a significant loss for the Rockford community.
A funeral mass will be held on March 16, 2023, at 11 a.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, with a visitation starting at 10 a.m.. Burial will follow at New Milford Cemetery. An additional visitation is planned for March 15 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory on Mulford Road.
The community mourns the loss of Frank Manzullo, whose dedication to both his business and his community will not be forgotten. As details continue to emerge, tributes and memories are sure to flood in, reflecting the indelible mark he left on Rockford.
