Francis R. Caplan, 85, a lifelong resident of greater Hartford died Friday, August 22, 2008 at Hartford Hospital. Born April 12, 1923, he was one of three sons born to Gertrude Gorback Caplan and William H. Caplan. Frannie grew up in Hartford and excelled as the varsity center on the Weaver High School football team. Upon graduation in 1941, he attended the University of Alabama for two years before enlisting in the United States Air Force to serve his country during World War II. He served in England during the precarious days of the bombings of 1944. After his discharge, he opened the Francis R. Caplan and Company Insurance Agency in April of 1946. Frannie prided himself on outstanding service to his clients. “We weren’t the biggest agency in town,” he said proudly, “but I honestly think we were the best”. In 2006 he sold his business after celebrating 60 outstanding years in the insurance industry from which he received several notable honors and awards. Francis Caplan was one of the pioneers in the cable television industry in the greater Hartford area. He became president of United Cable of Connecticut in 1975 before selling the business to National Business Company. Mr. Caplan was also a successful investor in residential real estate. Francis Caplan was also active in communal affairs. He served as Vice President of the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Hebrew Home and Hospital. He also served as president and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Hartford in the early 70’s. Fran was also an avid golfer and a lifetime member of Tumble Brook Country Club, Bloomfield, where he served on the Board of Directors. He leaves his son, Richard S. Caplan of West Hartford; granddaughter Alexandra; brother, Jerome Caplan of Springfield, MO; and loving nieces and nephews: Dr. Paula Caplan, Dr. Bruce M. Caplan, Clifford and Peter Caplan and Cheryle Joyce. He was predeceased by his son, Robert and his ex-wife Joyce. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 25, 2008 at 12:00 noon in the Sanctuary of Congregation Beth Israel, 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford with Rabbi Stephen Fuchs officiating. Interment will follow in Beth Israel Cemetery, Avon. The family will receive relatives and friends Monday following the funeral at his home, 48 Timberwood Rd. (Steeple Chase), West Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Parkinsons Disease Association, 27 Allendale Dr., North Haven 06473. Arrangements are entrusted to Weinstein Mortuary, Hartford. For further information, directions, or to share memories of Frannie with his family, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com.