Frank “Franz” Bakter was born in Trenton, New Jersey on April 30th, 1956 to Martin and Romana Bakter. He spent the majority of his life in Wappingers Falls, New York and graduated Roy C. Ketcham High School in 1974.

A man of many talents and trades, he was proficient in carpentry, plumbing, home renovation & automotive repair. His hobbies were many and varied; possibly chief among them was his love for fishing. He was a perennial jokester, always looking to share new and funny jokes he had come across. He always enjoyed hearing new ones from others to add to his repertoire. He was also a big fan of movies and music. The live concert experience was something he enjoyed as much as being on a fishing boat. His all time favorite band was The Allman Brothers Band. Frank took great pride in the comparisons he sometimes drew to Greg Allman. Such a fan was he that his daughter was named for the song “Melissa”. Through his strength, determination and faith, he was able to conquer his past demons and celebrated eight years of sobriety prior to his passing!

Frank was twice married in his life. His first marriage to Ginger Hoyt In 1982 beget his daughter Melissa. His second marriage to Cindy Donahue in 1988 beget his son Franz.

Frank passed away on June 27th, 2026 from complications related to metastatic cancer.

He is survived by his brothers Leo, Edward and Keith; his daughter Melissa and her husband, Anthony; his grandchildren Francesca and Giovanni; and by his son Franz.

Per his final request; funeral services will not be held but a private celebration of life memorial will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Straub, Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, 55 East Main Street in Wappingers Falls. To send the family a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.