Francis Alois Karoley, age 75, husband of Naneen (O'Hara) Karoley, of Malvern, Pennsylvania, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, August 17, 2022 at home.

Born on October 31, 1946 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was a son of the late Henry and Marie (Neibert) Karoley. A veteran, he honorably enlisted into the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Mr. Karoley remained in the U.S Naval Reserve for over 40 years, and served during four wartimes. During his career Mr. Karoley received numerous awards and achievements, including a Naval Reserve Meritorious Service Medal and a Navy Commendation Medal. Along with his twin brother George, Frank was the first ever recipient of the U.S. Naval Reserve Golden Helm Award. Together Frank and George wrote the Naval Career Counseling Manual. Over his time Frank served in various units. Starting as a training device man, he climbed the ranks to Command Master Chief Petty Officer. He held a civilian position at NAS Willow Grove as the Learning Center Director until his retirement. Through his work, Frank dedicated his life to bettering the lives of service men and women.

Mr. Karoley was a scholar. Over his life he earned six degrees, including two master’s degrees. In his free time Frank enjoyed watching old movies and the Phillies, golfing, and enjoying time with his family. He especially loved sharing his stories and knowledge with his children and grandchildren. He was an avid historian with a focus on the U.S. Civil War and WWII. He also dedicated his time to coach various sports teams for his children, as well as oversee the stage/sound crew for their school productions. When Frank was young he enjoyed playing baseball and hosting his own radio show with his brothers. Frank also loved music, and volunteered as a sound engineer for folk festivals. It was there that he had the opportunity to do the sound work for many famous musicians.


In addition to his wife, Mr. Karoley is survived by Daughter, Marie (William) Roche; Son, Matthew Karoley; Granddaughters, Anna and Erin Roche; Brother, Henry (Marjorie) Karoley; Nephew, Michael Karoley . Mr. Karoley was pre-deceased by Father, Henry Karoley, Mother, Marie Karoley, Brother, George Karoley, Nephew, Steven Karoley.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Ceremony at Campbell-Ennis-Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc, 610 South Main Street, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at 12:00 pm. Burial will be held in the Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, Pennsylvania. Friends will be received from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Thursday at Campbell-Ennis-Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc