Benjamin J. Frank

Benjamin J. Frank, 94 of 192 Front Street, Strong passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 26, 2023 in his home.

Born in Atlas on February 20, 1929, he was a son of the late James and Mary (Geary) Frank.

Ben was a 1947 graduate of the former Mount Carmel Township High School.

On February 26, 1954 he married the former Catherine Florence Feudale, who preceded him in death on January 15, 1991.

Mr. Frank served his country for over 22 years in the Army until his retirement in 1971. He was a veteran of the Korean (2 tours) and Vietnam Wars (2 tours) . He received numerous decorations and citations during his esteemed military career including the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with two bronze oak leaf clusters, Good Conduct Medal sixth award, Presidential Unit Citation, Army of Occupation Medal with Japan clasp, National Defense Service Medal with one bronze service star, Korean Service Medal with four bronze service stars, Combat Infantryman Badge First Award, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device (1960) and the Marksman Badge with Carbine Bar. In March of this year, Mr. Frank received a Quilt of Valor uniquely made by hand to express love and gratitude for his courage, sacrifice and selfless love for his country.

After his military retirement, he wore many hats and was employed for various different companies including Arcos Industries, the former Cardinal Container both of Mount Carmel Township and Northumberland County, Sunbury. He was also employed as a bus driver for thirteen years by the former King Coal Tours, Kulpmont. Mr. Frank was also a former Mount Carmel Township Supervisor.

Ben was a member of Divine Redeemer Church, Mount Carmel, the Kulpmont American Legion Post 231 and the Atlas Fire Company. He was a lifetime member of the Mount Carmel VFW Post 2110.

He was avid Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles sports fan. Ben enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach. He particularly liked sunny Florida where he lived for several years with his second wife the former Elinor Clark, who preceded him in death in 2007.

Also preceding him in death in addition to his parents and wives; his son, Benjamin R. Frank Sr.; grandson, Benjamin R. Frank Jr.; granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth Frank; one brother, Eugene Frank and one sister, Angelina Shopinski.

Ben was known as “Pap” to many. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved Christmas Eve dinners and loved buying his gifts and would have all his cards filled out weeks in advance! He was generous, kind, witty, and such a fun man to be around. His favorite hobby was making boilo which he enjoyed sharing with family and friends.

Surviving are his companion of 14 years, Marian Edmondson of Coal Township; three sons, James Frank and his wife Vera of Coal Township, Robert Frank and his wife Eileen of Catawissa and Mark Frank and his wife Anita of Strong; one daughter with whom he resided , Jana Mace and her fiancé Robert Pochakilo; daughter-in-law, Dianne Frank of Mount Carmel; nine grandchildren, Bryan Frank, Allyson Frank, Natalie Frank, Brian Mace Jr. and his wife Christy, Lauren Mace Ferry and her husband Drew, Nicole Frank, Heather Frank, Amanda Frank and Mark Frank; six great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Gina, James, Dylan, Lottie and Tillie; nieces and nephews with their families and friends.

Ben’s favorite quote: You can not soar with the eagles in the morning if you are out hooting with the owls all night!

Religious services will be held on Friday, September 1, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Joseph J. Stutz, Inc. Funeral Home, 40 South Market Street, Mount Carmel, Joseph J. Stutz III, Supervisor. Rev. Bernard Wamayose, A. J. will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow in All Saints Cemetery, Bear Gap, Ralpho Township. A visitation will be held on Friday morning from 9:00 am until 11:00 am at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to the Kulpmont American Legion Post 231, 856 Ash Street, Kulpmont, PA 17834. To offer a condolence to Ben’s family please visit the Tribute Wall at www.stutzfuneralhome.