Henry P. Falcone

Semper fi! It means always faithful, and it’s a motto that Henry P. Falcone took to heart.

Henry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was also one of the few, the proud. He served as a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps, working as a radio operator.

Henry, who showed strength and fortitude until the very end, died on his 91st birthday at Tockwotton on the Waterfront in East Providence.

Henry spent most of his life with his late wife, Cecelia, by his side. Married for 66 years, Henry and Cecelia were inseparable. The pair met on a blind date and exchanged love letters while he served in the Marines. They married in 1953, were long-time residents of Cranston and had three children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Still, they found time to dance.

Henry and Cecelia never hid their love for one another and were often seen on the dance floor or holding hands. Henry loved music, and even at 90, he would still tap a finger or toe to the beat.

In addition to spending time with their family, Henry and Cecelia enjoyed gathering with their close friends, and they loved to travel. When in Walt Disney World, Henry never missed an opportunity to enjoy a Mickey ice cream bar. He loved ice cream — way more than the average person!

Henry was employed by the phone company for more than 50 years, working his way up from elevator operator to engineer. But even when he retired, he was always on the go. He liked to keep busy and could always be found fixing things or starting a new project.

Henry enjoyed running, and he competed in many local road races over the years. He also enjoyed playing tennis, was a New York Giants fan and coached youth sports in Cranston, including hockey and baseball.

Forever a proud Marine, Henry lived by the Marine Corps’ values: honor, courage and commitment, and he was always willing to help someone in need.

Henry is survived by his children: Joanne Crepeau (Thomas); Richard Falcone (Mary); and Lori Michaelson (Michael). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Amanda Falcone; Amy Michaelson; Shane Falcone; Robert Michaelson (Amber); and Zachary Falcone. He leaves two great grandchildren, Connor Henry and Max.

In addition to his wife, Henry was predeceased by his parents, Alphonso Falcone and Edith Falcone-Cipriano; his stepfather, Columbo “Bill” Cipriano; and his sister, Maria Denis.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, September 27th, at 9 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave. in Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Mark’s Church, Cranston. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS are Monday, September 26th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Henry’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 245 Waterman Street, Suite 306, Providence, RI 02906.