My memories of Frank are many. I only knew him for a short period of time but he had a tremendous impact on me and I was honored to be his daughter-in-law.
I got to know Frank as a father and friend to my husband, David. Of the many gifts Frank gave to us during his life, it was his unconditional love and support for his son, David and daughter, Linda that stands out. He was always encouraging, interested, helpful, and accepting of the life choices his children made, even when it put too much time and distance between them.
Whenever David and I arrived at the house in Tacoma for a visit, usually after flying all day from the East Coast, Frank was always waiting at the front door regardless of the time of night it was. Inevitably, the door would swing open, and with all the energy and enthusiasm he could muster,(and it was considerable!), he would yell "Hey Dave, Hey Peg", glad you're here. I called the airline to get the program, and knew you were arriving at 10:06 pm ... " We would then be up for several hours, with Frank treating us to a story or two. He was a fun guy and boy, could he tell a story.
Frank was David's 'best man' at our wedding in 1997. This was very fitting because Frank was a role model for David in so many ways -- a strong work ethic, a love for the outdoors, the ocean and the mountains, and an uncanny ability to save every piece of paper you ever touched. But it was Frank's unconditional love and support for David that shone through the strongest for me. He was his son's biggest fan. It is a gift that David will always have, and I believe a gift that he gives to his daughters; Jenni, Laura and Kara.
I'm a better person for having known Frank. I will truly miss him.##imported-begin##Peggy O'Neil##imported-end##
