Frank sadly passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday 5 May after a period battling prostate cancer.
Frank was a very well known character in Shildon. He worked at the Shildon wagon works from a young age until it closed in 1984. He was involved in the town’s British Legion for many years – being poppy appeal organiser, raising thousands of pounds making and selling poppies throughout the town. He also carried the British Legion standard at the annual Remembrance Day parades in Shildon, Middridge and Eldon – and even had the honour of carrying the town’s standard in London at the Albert Hall Remembrance event. Frank himself served within the Durham Light Infantry for 2 years National Service in the late 50’s.
Frank was also heavily involved in local government – serving first on the town council and later on Sedgefield Borough Council. Frank liked talking to people and was always keen to do what he could to help others. Highlight of this period was being chairman, effectively the mayor, of the Shildon Town Council in 1999. As a local councillor dad and mam were invited to attend a Buckingham Palace Garden party in 1994.
Frank, born in New Shildon was well known within the Shildon Clubs and Railway Institute – an accomplished darts player, even beating the then world champion John Lowe in an exhibition set, and he often served on various club committees across the years. Enjoying a Sunday lunchtime pint in the Institute was a lifetime ritual enjoyed almost to the end of his life. A keen ballroom dancer for many years – Frank’s organised bus trips to the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool and British Legion Dinner Dances were legendary. Frank was also a very keen bowler and despite failing eyesight in his later years, could still land his bowls close to the jack!
Frank was married for 64 years to Ann and has 3 sons – Derek, Stuart and Andrew with 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
Frank’s funeral will take place on Monday 1 June with a Church service at St. John’s Church at 12.45pm followed by the Wear Valley Crematorium at 1.30pm.
Following the funeral service, people are welcome to join the family at the Shildon Railway Institute around 2.30pm for light refreshments.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
