Frank peacefully passed away April 14, 2018. Predeceased by his beloved wife of 31 years, Irene (DeMaire). Frank was the son of Charles Alexis and Ivy Agnes Singleton, born on March 10, 1930. He is survived by Joy Singleton and his loving children, Yvette (Mark) Campbell, Sandi (John) Demers, and Tom (Christine). Devoted grandfather of Allison Campbell (Roddy Henning), Justin (Kristin) Demers, Caitlynn (Jay) Say, Ryan Campbell (Taren Keith), Nicholas (Brittany) Singleton, Karl (Tabitha) Campbell, and Jennifer Singleton (Brandon Coley). Great-Grandfather of Summer Rose Garvie and Brielle Joanna Coley. Also survived by the five nieces and nephews, Michael (Dawn) McKay, Kathleen (Dave Reichenbach), Terri (Kenn Turrell), Larry (Linda) McKay, Dan (Lynne) McKay, and also a Great Uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Frank graduated from St. Joseph’s High School, Detroit in 1948. He worked at Crowley Milner in Detroit from 1948 to 1951, as a logistic specialist, where he met the love of his life, Irene DeMaire, through co-workers, George & Edith Larner. The Larner’s would remain life-long family friends.
Frank was drafted into military service on September 24, 1951 and served with distinction as an Ammunition Foreman in the U.S Army, 5th Army, 7th Infantry Division during the Korean War. Frank was wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart Medal. He was honorably discharged as a Sargent First Class on June 24, 1953. After his discharge, Frank went to work at Packard Motor Company prior to joining Ford Motor Company as a Design Leader in February 1956. Frank was employed by Ford Motor Company for 33 years and retired 1989. During his time at Ford, Frank was involved on several high profile programs, including the design of the initial Mustang, and many futuristic concept vehicles. Affectionately, Frank's group was known as “F-Troop” in the halls of the Ford Design Center, Dearborn.
Frank was a consummate sports fan. In retirement, Frank stayed active through his passions for golf, bowling, and supporting his grandchildren’s sporting events. As an avid supporter, his reputation often preceded him, and his boisterous behavior was well known by many members of the officiating community. He was often counseled upon his arrival to remain as spectator, and not attempt to perform their role from the stands. He was his grandchildren’s #1 fan.
In 1954, Frank and Irene bought their first home on Ursuline in St. Clair Shores, and became active members in St. Isaac Jogues Parish. The Ursuline neighbors quickly became a close knit family. Throughout his life, Frank held steadfast to his Catholic roots, strong faith and was a member of the Msgr. Stapleton Knights of Columbus. Frank served as an Usher for 40+ years at St. Isaac Jogues Church, and was active with the annual Church fair.
Frank displayed strength and tenderness when faced with personal adversity, or concern for others in his life. As evidenced from his military training, Frank always took a step forward for others, versus taking a step back. He demonstrated this compassionate side with the loving care he provided for his terminally ill wife, who passed away in 1985, and then for his Mother-in-Law until her passing in 1989.
Frank was a man of true distinction in everything he did. He will be remembered for his eloquence of speech and love of humor, grace, faith, loyalty, dependability, and his love for his family and friends.
Visitation is at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Avenue, St. Clair Shores – Wednesday, April 18 @ 3p-8p with a Rosary service at 7p. Instate Thursday, April 19 at St. Isaac Jogues Church, 21100 Madison St, St Clair Shores, 9:30am until time of funeral mass 10am.
