Frank Fath

Frank Fath was born in Krnjaja, Yugoslavia on October 4, 1931 to Frank & Christina Fath, the third of their three children. During World War II, his town was evacuated and his family was forced to flee to Munich, Germany. Post-war, he learned his trade of plumbing and pipefitting.

He followed his brother to Canada for work, and it was there he met Margaret, the love of his life on New Year’s Eve 1958. On that evening, they danced and listened to Ava Maria together, and knew it was a strong match. Their whirlwind romance ended at the altar seven months later, on July 18, 1959.

In 1963, Margaret and Frank moved to the United States and raised their two daughters in Troy Michigan. Frank’s love of nature led the family to have numerous animals, including birds, hamsters, fish and a dog. He introduced the family to camping where he was in his element.

Frank was self-disciplined and a steadfast husband and father. His serious nature was balanced by his wife’s light-heartedness and both were made stronger and more complete by the union. It was in his later years that that he came out of his shell and enjoyed talking with family, friends, and even strangers. He took great care of his and his family’s health and was always, active and exercising. He was strong and agile enough to investigate an air conditioning issue on his roof, while in his 80’s.

Frank had an inquisitive mind and was always learning. He loved technology and FaceTimed his daughters well into his 90’s. He was a Consumer Reports fan and kept a whole library of back issues in this office, which he regularly researched. He also played an excellent game of chess well into his 90’s and typically beat online and in-person competitors.

Frank was meticulous in his work. He also a had a very strong work ethic and was a dedicated employee which was prized by his employers; namely, J.R. Kellett in Clawson, Michigan, Palo

Verde Nuclear Power Plant and the City of Mesa in Arizona. Frank retired in the early 2000s but continued many habits, including gardening, chess, financial dabbling, and maintaining a fastidious house and property. His love of gardening was apparent wherever he lived. In Arizona, one-quarter of the backyard was a dedicated vegetable garden, where you would often find him sitting and enjoying nature. At his most recent home within a care facility he grew tomatoes and peppers.

Frank is survived by his two daughters, Christine Oakley (Glenn) and Ingrid Wengert (Tim). He is predeceased by his wife Margaret Fath, his parents and brother and sister.

If desired, donations may be made to:

Alzheimer’s Association (225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor #17 Chicago, IL 60601)

Saint Cecilia Roman Catholic Church (90 Church Street Rockaway, NJ 07866)