Obituary of Joyce Telva Frank

Joyce T. Loomis was born in Toledo on July 16, 1946.   She was one of three children a twin daughter born from the union of Gerald and Helen (Thomas) Loomis.   Joyce grew up in Luna Pier and attended Erie Mason Schools.   In 1963, she was selected as the school’s first Homecoming Queen, and then graduated with the class of 1964.

Joyce married the love of her life, Gene R. Frank on October 10, 1964 in Luna Pier.  The couple was blessed with the birth of four children, and she cared for the needs of her husband and children.  

Joyce was extremely artistic and an avid crafter.   Her creativity extended to many different creations including pillows, blankets, clothing, dolls, purses, and flower displays.   Joyce was quite generous and donated many of her original works to help raise funds for charity.   She also loved to bake and cook for her family and friends.  

For many years, Joyce had enjoyed bowling.   She was also very fond of fishing and had spent many days casting lines into Lake Erie or after Gene’s retirement the Gulf of Mexico since they wintered in Florida.   Joyce was well-known for her nightly snacks of ice cream and popcorn, and her passion for her grandchildren.

Joyce T. Frank, age 72, of Erie passed away at 8:55am on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at Ebeid Hospice Residence in Sylvania.   Her passing was preceded by her mother in 2005 and father in 2001.  

To cherish her memory she leaves her husband of fifty-four years:  Gene R. Frank Sr. of Erie; three sons:  Troy Frank of Toledo, Gene (Michelle) Frank Jr. of Erie, and James (Rachel) Frank of Erie; one daughter:  Jodie (Darin) Bowman of Monroe; one brother:  Jerry (Janet) Loomis of LaSalle; her twin sister:  Judy Philabaun of Erie; nine grandchildren:  Andrew and Matthew Frank, Ava Young, Ian, Evan, and Emma Frank, Bailey Brancheau, Jacob Willets, and Jenner Bowman; one great granddaughter:  Brielle Frank.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm-8:00pm on Monday, January 7, 2019 at Merkle Funeral Service, Erie; 9156 Summit Street (734) 848-5185.   A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 also at Merkle’s with Pastor Roy Southerland officiating.   Procession will follow to Roselawn for burial.

Memorials for those who desire are suggested to the American Cancer Society.   Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.