Carl K Triola
June 1, 1925 ~ June 21, 2008
Carl K. Triola, 83, a resident of Franklin and The Villages, Fla. Died Saturday, June 21, 2008, at his home at 100 Tamarack Drive, Franklin, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 1, 1925, in Meadville, was the son of Anthony Triola and Mildred Powell Triola, both deceased. Mr. Triola graduated from Meadville High School. He was a veteran of World War II, enlisting in the Army Air Corps as a cadet in May 1943. He served for three years and was honorably discharged in January 1946. His fascination with airplanes continued after his military service and he became a pilot of small recreational airplanes. In December 1952, at 27 years of age, Mr. Triola became a Ford and Mercury car dealer and started Franklin Auto, Inc., as one of the youngest Ford/Mercury dealers in the country. In 2002, he retired after 50 years in the automobile business as one of the oldest Ford/Mercury dealers in the country. Ford Motor Company officials from Detroit attended a celebration in his honor. Shortly after becoming a dealer, he organized the Franklin Automobile Dealers Association. In 1980 he helped organize the Tri-County Automobile Dealers Association. He was the president of the New Car and New Truck Dealers Association and served on the Ford Dealer and Mercury Dealer Advertising Boards for many years. Mr. Triola was the past president and active member of the Franklin Chamber of Commerce, The Rotary Club, served on the Airport Authority and served on the Franklin Water Authority and the Parking Authority. He was also the past president and active member of the Franklin High School Red and Black Club and was instrumental in starting the concession stand at Miller-Sibley Stadium, and the moving of the stand to the present football stadium. Mr. Triola, along with his wife, Mary Lou, was named "Sports Man and Woman of the Year" in 1975 by the Red and Black Club. For many years he sponsored the Punt, Pass and Kick Contest, which benefited many of the area's youth. Mr. Triola was an active member of St. Patrick Church, served as an usher for many years, and was actively involved in soliciting contributions to build the Venango Catholic High School. He generously contributed time and money to many religious and civic organizations. He was a member of Wanango Country Club for many years and also a member of the Franklin Club for close to 50 years. His interests were varied. In the summer, he often was seen mowing his lawn in a suit and tie. In the winter, he enjoyed plowing snow for all his neighbors and friends. He enjoyed golf and organized many golf outings. Also, he played tennis, bridge and liked to ski. For many years, he and his family camped and boated at Kinzua Dam and also in Canada. He was married to Mary Lou Hickernell on Sept. 16, 1950, at St. Brigid Church, Meadville. He is survived by his wife and children, Stephanie Hawks and Joseph Triola, all of Franklin. Mr. Triola was a devoted and loving "Papa" to six grandchildren, Dustin Hawks of Boston, Mass., Darren Hawks of Franklin, Annie Hawks of Edinboro and Franklin, Daniel Triola of Franklin and Meaghen and Rebecca Triola of Waynesboro, Va. He is also survived by his sister, Frances Osborne of Meadville; and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Triola was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert Triola; and a sister, Doris Cresswell. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Robert W. Gardinier Funeral Home, Franklin. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church with Msgr. John J. Herbein presiding. A private interment will take place at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial gifts can be made to VNA of Venango County Hospice Program or St. Patrick Food Pantry or a charity of one's choice. Condolences may be sent online at www.gardinierfuneralhome.com
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Steph, I just wanted to send my sympathy to you and your family.
I worked with you at N/W bank in Franklin back in the 70’s.
Hope all else is going well for you. I am in Mercer living now with my husband and two children.
TAke care and know you are in my thoughts. Ginny Highfield