Frank Guzzo, 84, of Columbus, formerly of Lodi, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Oak Park Place in Madison.

Frank was born on July 4, 1942, in Chicago to Sam and Clara (DeMichael) Guzzo. As the youngest child, born 11 years after his three older siblings, he had a special bond with his mom. Life wasn't always easy. His father's alcoholism left a lasting impression on Frank, and he watched his mother work long hours in factories to provide for them. Those experiences shaped the kind of man he became, hardworking, compassionate, and determined to build a better life for his own family.

Even as a boy, Frank was always finding ways to earn a few dollars. He pulled his little wagon through the neighborhood, offering to carry groceries home for people. He cleaned cages at a pet store, worked at a neighborhood candy shop, and spent time at a hardware store, where he made friendships that lasted a lifetime. Many of his favorite fishing buddies were older men who became mentors, teaching him not only how to fish but also the importance of faith, family, and living with integrity.

Frank married his first love, Joanne Udaundo, and together they welcomed two daughters, Lisa and Victoria. They shared a wonderful marriage and created countless family memories, especially their annual Christmas trips to Key West with Frank's mom, Joanne's dad, their dogs, and even their pet bird. Those vacations became family traditions filled with laughter and stories that would be shared for years. Joanne passed away far too young, but the love they built together continues through their daughters and grandchildren.

Later in life, Frank met Jeanne Snell Fischer through mutual friends on Paradise Island, a place that had long been special to him. He and Joanne had purchased a home there, dreaming of retirement and enjoying weekends filled with boating and fishing. Frank and Jeanne were married two years later and recently celebrated 25 wonderful years together.

Nothing made Frank happier than spending time with his family or being out on the water with a fishing pole in his hand. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went, and people were drawn to his kindness, sense of humor, and generous heart.

Frank will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of fishing and boating, his devotion to his family, and the quiet kindness he showed throughout his life. His greatest legacy is the love he shared and the memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him.

Frank is lovingly survived by his wife, Jeanne; his daughters, Lisa (Sam) Gambacorta and Victoria (David) Gonzalez; his stepdaughter, Heather Fischer (Matt Keiser); his stepsons, Joel Fischer (Sara Notstad) and Jared Fischer; and his beloved grandchildren: Francesca (Jacob) Gilman, Jo Gambacorta, Angelina Gambacorta, and Sammy Gambacorta, Samantha Gonzalez, Ramon Gonzalez, Xelia Fischer, Garen Keiser and Greta Keiser, and Margaret Fischer and Abigail Fischer; brothers and sisters-in-law, Judy (Bob Caulum) Snell, Kathleen (Kevin) Hammer, Michael (Susan) Snell, Kevin (Lorri Houston) Snell, Patrick Snell, Bridget (Beth Hougen) Snell, Jessie Guzzo; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joanne; his parents, Sam and Clara Guzzo; his brothers, Sam and Iggy; his sister, Josephine; and his special niece, Patti Busse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lake Wisconsin Evangelical Free Church to help with funeral expenses.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Lake Wisconsin Evangelical Free Church in Lodi. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Luncheon immediately following.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie

(608) 837-9054