Gerald Frank, 75, of Springfield, passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2014, at Memorial Medical Center due to complications associated with prostate cancer. Gerald was born on February 13, 1939, in Southampton, NY, the son of Harry and Dorothy (Lazarus) Frank. Gerald proudly served our country as a member of the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1962. He graduated from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. in 1967 with a Bachelor's Degree and Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA in 1970 with a Master's Degree. Gerald married Carolyn Stahlhut on August 29, 1970, in Lincoln, IL. He served the Springfield community for many years as a social worker at Memorial Medical Center's Psychiatric Unit until retiring in 2001. Outside of work, Gerald was an avid runner. He ran and completed numerous road races including two marathons, three ultra marathons, and two 24-hour races. His best marathon was completing the 1984 St. Louis Marathon in 3:01. His best 24-hour race was completing 101 miles during Springfield's 1981 24-Hour Race at Memorial Stadium.
Gerald was awarded Springfield Roadrunners Master Runner of the Year in 1986 and Hardcore Runner of the Year in 1985. Upon completing his many years of running, Gerald volunteered at St. John's Breadline, and was a part owner of Cigars for Aficionados.
Gerald is survived by his loving wife Carolyn of Springfield, his son Nathan (Ashley) Frank, 3 grandchildren; Madelyn, Jonah, and Aubrey, of Naperville, IL, a brother David (Gioia) Frank of Fresno, CA, sisters-in-law; Barbara Thake, Margaret (Michael) Webster, and Mary Shattuck, as well as several nieces nephews and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Cremation rites will be accorded by Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL, 62711, where a memorial celebration will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, from 5-7 pm.
In lieu of flowers those who wish to may leave a memorial in Gerald's name to the Memorial Medical Center Foundation, Springfield, IL.
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