Franklin M. Shugarts

Franklin M. ‘Max’ Shugarts, a resident of Graystone Court Villas, Clearfield, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026 at Penn Highlands DuBois. He was born April 16, 1931 to Frank L. and Cora N. (Shaw) Shugarts. He was born at home, in Boggs Township, as a fire was burning in the woods around the house.

Max attended the one room Center School from first through sixth grade and then went on to graduate from Clearfield High School in 1950. He was a football player at CHS, where he received all-county recognition. He was also a member of the wrestling team.

Max served in the Air Force as a cryptographer, Airman 1st Class, from 1951-1955. He was a veteran of the Korean War and was assigned to the Fifth Air Force Headquarters in Seoul, Korea.

Max wed Jane (Nelson) Shugarts on May 19, 1956 at West Side United Methodist Church. They were married 56 years before her passing on May 15, 2013.

Max was employed by CWP (Clearfield Wholesale Paper Company) and retired from there after 49 years of employment.

He enjoyed sports, antiquing, gardening, attending his grandchildren’s events, watching Jeopardy and playing his weekly Wednesday pinochle game.

He was a member of the West Side United Methodist Church, where he served on several committees over the years. He also attended Mt. Joy United Methodist Church. He was a member of the American Legion, Clearfield Fire Company and Old Town Sportsmen’s Association.

He is survived by his children, Doug Shugarts and wife Barbara, Doreen Pierdomenico and husband John, and Deb Clark and husband Keith; grandchildren, Nate, Dana, Bree, Weston, Mel, Julianna, John Paul, Shay, Noah, and Alexis; great grandchildren, Zariya, Thea, Micah, and Clayton. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Ruth Bock and husband Bill; and a sister-in-law, Janet Nelson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife; his son, Dennis D. Shugarts; brothers, Orville B. Shugarts, C. Leslie Shugarts, Glenn Shugarts, and an infant brother. Also preceded in death by his sisters, Tressie Murphy, Ruth Soltis, and Doris Mae Shugarts.

A memorial service will be held at the West Side United Methodist Church on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11 AM. Visitation will be held at the church from 10-11 AM.

Memorial contributions can be made to the West Side United Methodist Church; the Mt. Joy United Methodist Church; or a charity of your choice.

Bennett and Houser Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

To leave a note for the family, visit www.bennettandhouser.com

‘Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me’. Psalm 23:4