​SPECULATOR-Francis Gramlich, age 80, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 21, 2021 in Ellis Hospital, Schenectady with the support and comfort of his loving family at his side. Fran was born on November 17, 1940 in Little Falls, son of the late Joseph R. and Katherine Eugena Hess Gramlich. He was raised in Utica and was a graduate of Utica Free Academy, class of 1958. He furthered his education at Utica College where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree; he then went on to receive a Master's Degree in Art at Syracuse University. An honorably discharged US Army veteran, he served during the Vietnam War era. On August 5, 1967 he was united in marriage to the former Kathleen Darling in Saint James RC Church in Lake Pleasant and they made their home in Speculator. For 32 years, Mr. Gramlich worked as an Art teacher in both Indian Lake and Lake Pleasant school systems. He retired in 1997. Fran had a strong belief in God and was an active member of Saint James RC Church in Lake Pleasant. He proudly served as a Trustee and member of the Parish Council.For many years he found much satisfaction in teaching and working with the church acolytes. Fran had a true love for the outdoors. After his retirement from teaching school, he became a Licensed Adirondack Guide. He also enjoyed making his own maple syrup and sharing it with his many friends. He was a fireman with Lake Pleasant Volunteer Fire Company and later with the Speculator Volunteer Fire Company. Fran was also an active member of the Speculator, Lake Pleasant, Piseco Fish and Game Club. To all who knew him, he will always be remembered as a kind, caring and generous man with a great sense of humor. He was always there to help others whilelooking for nothing in return. He will be sadly missed. He is survived by his devoted wife of fifty-four years, Kathy, a daughter, Kristin Regan and her husband John of Burnt Hills, his cherished grandson Liam Regan, a brother James Gramlich and his wife Margaret of Florida, brother-in-law Thomas Chaffee of Owego, several nieces, a nephew and cousins. A private Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday in Saint James RC Church, Pleasant Lake the Reverend Sony Pulickal, pastor officiated. Expressions of sympathy may be made with memorial donations to Saint James RC Church, PO Box 241, Speculator, NY 12164