Ronald "Ron" George Frank

Ronald George Frank, lovingly known as Ron, went home to be with the Lord on January 19, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas, one day shy of his 87th birthday. He was 86 years old.

Ron was born on January 20, 1939, in Tacoma, Washington, to George Frank Jr. and Emma Yukert Frank. He was raised in Tacoma and graduated from Tacoma High School. From an early age, Ron was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and determination—qualities that defined his life.

On June 10, 1963, Ron married the love of his life, Carolyn Smith, in Moses Lake, Washington. Their marriage of 57 years was one built on devotion, commitment, and love. Together, they created a home filled with family, laughter, and steady support.

Ron proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, dedicating over 22 years of service before retiring with the rank of Technical Sergeant (TSgt) in 1977. His military career took him across the country and overseas, including assignments in Washington State, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Charleston, South Carolina, and ultimately settled in Derby, Kansas, where he later made his home.

Following his military service, Ron began a long and fulfilling career with Boeing, where his precision, mechanical knowledge, and dedication were highly valued.

Ron was a true perfectionist who could fix or build just about anything. He took pride in working on his home and yard and loved spending time fishing, camping, and watching sports. He was an avid fan of football, especially the Seattle Seahawks, and enjoyed college basketball, always cheering on Kansas teams.

Above all else, Ron cherished his family. He loved his wife deeply, was devoted to his children, and absolutely adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His presence, wisdom, and steady guidance will be dearly missed.

Ron is survived by his son, Richard (Dana) Frank; daughter, Dawn Frank; grandchildren, Shanna (Tristan), Brandon, Matthew, Dayne, Amber, and Ethan; and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Oaklie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; his wife of 57 years, Carolyn Frank; and a son and daughter-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation in honor of Ronald Frank, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306.

Ron will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, and a man who could do anything he set his mind to. His legacy of love, service, and craftsmanship will live on through all who knew him.

Funeral Service for Ron will be held at 2:00PM, Monday, January 26th, with visitation an hour prior, at Lakeview Funeral Home. Military Funeral Honors will follow the service, 12100 East 13th Street North, Wichita, Kansas 67206.

For those of you who are unable to attend in-person, the funeral service will be livestreamed at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c26018886234920