John Frank

What does one say… the passing of a legend!

John Frank, 97, of Lexington, NC, passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. John was born on December 10, 1925, in Rochester, NY, to the late George Fredrick Frank and Elizabeth Pierrepont Frank. Along with his parents, John was predeceased by his siblings Betty Britton, Phyllis Smith, Bob Frank, as well as his first wife Angela Cappellino Frank.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 21 years, Trudy Frank, with whom he shared an extraordinary partnership; his children, Michael Frank (Joanna), of London; Patricia Frank Zauzig, of Bradenton, FL; John Frank (Christine), of Sykesville, MD; David Frank (Jessica), of  Mattapoisett, MA; Peter Frank (Kara), of Portola, CA; Andrew Frank (Leslie), of Costa Mesa, CA; Lori Pennea, of Charlotte NC; and Cat Pennea, of NYC; as well as his twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

John lived a very full and varied life. Out of high school he trained as a naval pilot eventually flying TBF torpedo bombers first and later AD-1 fighter bombers off the USS Tarawa on a Mediterranean cruise. After completing his training in electrical engineering that he had begun in the Navy, John worked for Westinghouse then Ball Industries in the burgeoning space and technology industry. Always having the ambition to be his own boss, John moved his family west to take over a pool installation franchise. His next career was law. Qualifying at the age of 62, he specialized first in patent law then constitutional law.

His family were his first priority and, among other things, he graced his family and friends with his love of Shakespeare, Poetry, Philosophy, History and Music. He never stopped learning. A man of wisdom, integrity, acceptance, generosity, quick humor and gentle and patient nature, John commanded the highest regard and respect by all who knew him. He will be sorely missed by many.

No formal funeral services are planned but there will be a “Celebration of Life” to be scheduled at a later date.