Frank Austin Ironside

Frank Austin Ironside, age 89 of Warren, died Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at Ascension St. John Macomb-Oakland Hospital at their campus in Warren. He was born to parents John Hendrie and Lulu Marie (nee: Fleming) on April 19, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan.

What an honor it is to celebrate and pay tribute to a man who enlisted in the armed services at a young age, then decided to make it his longstanding career. As a sailor in the U.S. Navy, Frank’s honorable discharge reflects over 23 years of active service and 7 years as a Fleet Reservist,…truly an impressive and admirable tour of duty, and then some. So it is, with thanks and praise from a grateful nation, that we pay homage to Frank for service to our country, spanning 3 different war eras. Ultimately attaining the rank of Machinist’s Mate Chief Petty Officer (MMC), Frank was a shining example of patriotism and esprit de corps at its finest. Representing America with the utmost in pride, we extend our posthumous gratitude for his dedicated service and the willingness to stand in harm’s way at any moment. For the sacrifices made and in recognition of the Chief’s distinguished naval career, we honor and applaud his eminent service.

Following Frank’s extensive naval career, he decided to pour the best of his “Jack of all trades” skills into the work he performed as part of the L’Anse Creuse School System. From varied custodial jobs, to coaching and managing various sporting events, to the part he played in organizing and implementing the school’s concession stand, Frank was a well known face and presence on the L’Anse Creuse scene and truly made a positive impact on the lives around him. For many of the students, and especially his grandkids, Frank was most passionate when it came to their involvement in sports. Always willing to give pointers, share strategies, as well as encourage & exhort their efforts, he was their greatest supporter and advocate. Not only was his support seen and felt by the youth in his charge, but Frank was also recognized by the Lansing organization, “Friends of Basketball” with special honor and distinction for his unselfish and altruistic guidance where the kids were involved.

On a bit of a different sporting plain, this mini bio of Frank would be seriously remiss if not for mentioning his passion and excitement when it came to everything NASCAR. That’s right,…”Boogity-Boogity, Let’s Go Racin’ Boys” was a mantra that both he and Darrell Waltrip espoused and shared,…kind of a call-to-duty “Racin’ Style!” NASCAR was a huge part of Frank’s personal entertainment and enjoyment, and something you never wanted to interrupt. Recognized, affectionately, as an All-American sport ~ Southern Style, Frank’s avid fandom not only found him catchin’ the races on television, but enthralled to catch it all up close & personal on his multiple visits to the course at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn, Michigan as well.

Another activity Frank was avid about was walking. From the exercise he received in trekking through Eastland Mall, to the annual Labor Day walk across the Mackinac Bridge, Frank managed to keep his shoe supplier in good stead with the soles he replenished over the years. He was also keen on traveling and built quite the portfolio of places visited throughout the USA and abroad. Taking in the scenic splendor of what the world has to offer was always high on Frank’s priority list, with one of his favorite memories being the Alaskan Cruise he sailed. Not only enjoying the massive entertainment on board the ship, but he was taken aback by the beauty and majesty of what he saw from the deck as well. Another frequented site was enjoyed in the many trips he took to see his granddaughter in Perth, Australia. Renowned as the continents sunniest city, it was really the sunshine from his little girl he traveled so far to see. That’s what Grandpa’s do, right? Also,…being an active member of his local Moose Lodge, Frank found great fun and entertainment as he traveled with his many Moose brothers to the various casinos they enjoyed. Giving Ol’ Lady Luck a run for her money infused Frank with excitement and eager anticipation with each game he played. Whether he was sitting down to one of the gaming tables or giving one of the one-armed bandits a workout, Frank simply loved the challenge of it all and making lasting memories with friends along the way.

Yet of all the things he enjoyed in life, the most precious of all weren’t things at all,…his treasures were found in the hearts and souls of his cherished grandchildren. To them, he was an amazing grandfather and great-grandfather,…a man full of wisdom and love, a man who leaves a unique and genuine legacy to be embraced with each reflection shared. His presence will be both revered and missed, and his love forever a part of the lives he touched,…especially his precious loved ones.

Frank was the beloved husband of the late Frances Lillian. Dear father of Dave Carl Ironside, Lillian Marie Harper, Russell Allen Ironside, John Hendrie Ironside, Frank Austin Ironside Jr., and Donna Lee (Joseph) Kulesza. Loving grandfather of Kimberly, Tammy, Angela, Terrie, Joseph, Kelly, Deanna, Dean Allen, Lee, Floyd, Neil , and great-grandfather of 17. Brother of Carol (the late Fred) Ehardt, the late John Ironside, and the late David Ironside.

Visitation for Frank will be held Sunday, December 8th from 3-9 pm at the  D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road) in Warren.

His Funeral Services will take place on Monday, 11:00 am at the funeral home. Officiating the service will be Pastor Tracy Herald. Following the service, Frank will join his beloved Frances with burial at St. John Cemetery in Fraser, Michigan.

Memorial donations are welcomed to Mooseheart, 155 S. International Drive, Mooseheart, IL 60539, or at www.moosecharities.org.

Please share memories of Frank at his guest book below.