James T. “Tom” Frank, Sr., age 84, of Indianapolis, IN, passed away at 10:45 p.m. on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at his home.
Tom was born March 16, 1936, in Valparaiso, IN, to John R. Frank and Agnes J. (Webb) Frank. He graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1955.
Tom was a man with many passions and hobbies. He loved sailing with friends at the Indianapolis Sailing Club. He was a skilled photographer. He was a ham radio enthusiast. He traveled the world to places like Greece, Alaska, Italy, Israel, Cuba, and Africa to name a few. Tom loved music and was a choral conductor in earlier years, but most notably he was an enthusiastic member of three choirs: St. Luke’s United Methodist Church choir, Indianapolis’ Premier Men’s Chorus, Circle City Sound, and Castlewood Singers. His love for photography was evident in the many pictures he took of his children and grandchildren over the years and also the times he volunteered his services to take pictures of big events for other friends and family.
As a proud member of Sertoma International, whose mission is to be “leaders in service to mankind,” Tom had a desire to make this world a better place by serving others. He was also a longtime active member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, and in addition to singing in the choir, Tom was a Stephen’s Minister and provided Christ-centered care to people struggling with hard times.
During the summers in Tom’s high school years, Tom attended Culver Military Academy which he attributed to shaping him into the man he became. Tom went on to graduate from Indiana University’s School of Business and later had a career in pharmaceutical sales. Tom’s exuberant and affable personality led him to great success in his career. Additionally, he was part of the award-winning Singing Hoosiers at Indiana University.
Tom’s biggest passion was for his family. Many events and parties were hosted at Tom and Marty’s house where family enjoyed cookouts, bonfires, and singing Christmas carols during the winter holidays. Lastly, Tom was beloved by all who knew him as he was able to see the positive in everything and had a gift for making one feel like they were the most important person in the room if he was talking to you.
Tom is survived by his son, James T. Frank, Jr. (Nancy); daughters, Tracy Lynn Cook (Timothy), Deborah Lee Thomas, Jennifer Anne Woods (Lebbeus) and Tiffany Lee-Anne Armstrong; stepdaughter, Terri Ratcliff Spafford (John); stepson, Robert Yale Ratcliff (Robin); twenty grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, John and Agnes Frank; beloved wife, Martha “Marty” Frank and sister, Phyllis J. Frank, and first wife, Marilyn L. Frank.
Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday January 29th, 2021, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46260, with Pastor Rob Fuquay.
Graveside Services will be held at Locust Hill Cemetery, at 3800 Kratzville Rd, Evansville, IN at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 30th 2021, with Pastor Kris Holzmeyer.
Friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m., Saturday, January 30, 2021, at BOONE FUNERAL HOME EAST CHAPEL, 5330 Washington Ave., Evansville.
Memorial Contributions may be made to: Culver Military Academy at 1300 Academy Rd. Culver, IN 46511.
Condolences may be made to the family online at boonefuneralhome.net
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