Frank J. Brugger

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Frank J. Brugger. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. Frank was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.

Frank was born at Beth Israel Hospital in Newark, New Jersey. He was the son of Josephine and Louis Brugger. During his childhood he learned to be reliable and respectful. Frank was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. He found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Frank's personality throughout his life.

Frank was raised with one older sister, Doris. Frank and his sister had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of his experiences, Frank was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although he had an exacting nature, Frank was always tactful. One thing Frank will certainly be remembered for is that, when he got up in the mornings, he was ready and raring to go. As a young boy, Frank had a number of interests and was an active child. In his spare time he liked riding his bike and going to the movies.

There was one thing that all of Frank's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Frank was such a popular person throughout his life. But Frank was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. He was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, Frank was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Frank was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Frank was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When Frank made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. Some of his best friends in life were Richie Lange and Joey Buksar.

Frank was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call his sentimental and a romantic at heart. His kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around his. Frank cared for what others thought and carried that into his marriage. On March 19, 1960 Frank married Shirley Yvonne Griffith at the Justice of the Peace in Newark, New Jersey. Compassionate and devoted, Frank worked hard to make his new life partner happy.

Harmony was important to Frank and he made every effort to maintain it with his family. Frank was blessed with one child, Michelle. They were also blessed with three grandchildren, Tyler, Patty and Brandon. Frank was always conscious of the feelings others had. He was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Frank was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. His secret of success in this area was simple: Frank would listen before he would act.

Taking his work seriously came naturally to Frank, and he expected the same from those around him. Frank was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his good communication skills. Frank was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Frank handled well. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” His primary occupation was sales. He was employed for 18 years at Walmart. He brought harmony to his work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for his colleagues.

Blessed with a practical nature, Frank was a person who appreciated the routine of the military. He was a man who took his obligations seriously, working well with the others in his unit. Frank was a Navy veteran. He was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia on the U. S. S. Intrepid from 1955-1958. Frank saw action during the Korean War. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of SR.

A methodical man, Frank enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. He had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that he could have something to show for his efforts. He had quite a few hobbies that he enjoyed: antiques, collecting baseball cards and hot wheels, playing cards, gambling, watching old movies and shooting.

Frank was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth his best effort. Nowhere was that more visible than in sports. Frank was always enthusiastic and a great team player. Recreational sports included bowling. Frank also liked being a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite teams whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list to watch were professional pool players.

Frank was an active member of the American Legion for 35 years.

His high moral standards and traditional values served Frank well with his faith. Religion and faith were important to him. He was a member the St. Francis of Assisi. He was well respected because he was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner he could.

Not only did Frank enjoy traveling, but he also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. He was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. He rarely tired of going back and revisiting his favorite places. Favorite vacations included going to Disney World in Florida and visiting Las Vegas, Nevada.

Frank was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Sniffles, a West Highland Terrier, who was a best friend for 14 years.

Frank passed away on December 14, 2011 at St. Rose Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughter, Michelle; grandchildren, Tyler, Patty and Brandon; and nephew, Bobby Tonneson. Services were held at Palm Mortuary. Frank was laid to rest in Palm Cemetery.

Frank was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever he said something, he meant it. Frank was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss Frank J. Brugger.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Eastern Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.