On Friday, February 13th, 2015 Franklinville’s resident artist, Norman Maffei, passed away at the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo, New York. He was born on October 28th, 1923 in Franklinville to James G. and Victoria Staccioli Maffei. He married Helen McElfresh on December 28th, 1949. She preceded him in death on October 25th, 1995.

He attended Ten Broeck Academy and then served in the U.S. Army 45th Infantry Division in Italy from 1942 to 1945. His artistic work included many sketches of World War II and battleship war scenes.

After the War he came back to Franklinville. Later he joined the Merchant Marines, traveling around the world. On his return he attended the Albright Art Institute in Bufffalo.

A self-employed artist, he became known for his scenes surrounding our area. The Ischua Valley Historical Society has a wonderful collection of his work displayed at the Miner’s Cabin.

Mr. Maffei is survived by a daughter Susanne (Alva) Maffei-Lockwood of Franklinville, two grandsons James and Curtis Maffei, a step-grandson Michael Mohr all of Knoxville, TN, a sister Yolanda M. Wilson of Franklinville, a brother Albert Maffei of Delaware, several nieces and nephews and a special cousin Mildred Amitrano of Franklinville. His son James C. (Patricia) Maffei passed away in 1995.

He was a member of the Franklinville Conservation Club, The American Legion Post #526, The American Artist Society and The Ischua Valley Historical Society. Family and friends gathered at the Babbitt & Easton Funeral Parlor on February 20th. Burial will be in Mount Prospect Cemetery in Franklinville.

Memorials may be made to the Ischua Valley Historical Society or Blount Library. A celebration of Norman Maffei’s life will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, May 16th.