Paul J. Frantell

Paul J. Frantell, 84, of Springfield, formerly of Morton Grove, IL, died at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 27, 2009 at St. John's Hospice after a short but valiant fight against cancer. Paul was born September 3, 1924 in Chicago, the son of Matthew and Helen Hottinger Frantell. While at a dance in Lake Geneva, WI, a place where Paul spent his childhood summers, he met the love of his life, Margaret Kelly. They were married a year later in Chicago on April 19, 1947. Paul was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during WWII. He was employed as a licensed audiologist at the Elmhurst Clinic until his retirement. He moved to Springfield from the Chicago area five years ago and became a member of Christ the King Parish. Not one to sit still, Paul was a volunteer at the St. Martin de Porres Center and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. He was a generous and giving man who treated everyone he encountered with great respect. When not giving of his time, Paul partook in the game of golf, one he loved, as both a player and spectator. Another hobby he enjoyed was his photography, capturing memories and the beauty of life that surrounded him. A kind and loving father, his precious daughter Noelle and her husband William Curtin preceded Paul in death. He is survived by his beloved wife of over sixty years, Margaret Frantell of Springfield; one son, James (wife, Diane) Frantell of Glendale, AZ; two daughters, Gail (husband, Dr. Thomas) Wiss of Springfield and Jeanne (husband, Philip) Brewton of Dallas, TX; seven grandchildren, Michael (wife, Lisa) Curtin of Chicago, Matthew (wife, Kelly) Curtin of St. Louis, MO, Emily Wiss of Chicago, Paul Wiss of Springfield, Elizabeth Brewton of Dallas, TX, Austin and Andrew Frantell of Glendale, AZ; two great-grandchildren, Jacob and Ryan Curtin of Chicago; and his late sister, Carol McHenry. Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Memorial Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2009 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Drive, Springfield with Rev. Msgr. David Lantz celebrant. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Martin de Porres Center, 1725 S. Grand Ave. East, Springfield, IL 62703.