Frank I. Marin
07/12/1941 - 01/24/2018
A Life Remembered
Childhood in Chicago
(1941–1959)
Saturday, July 12th, 1941, Virginia and Al Marin welcomed their first child, Francis Irving Marin into their lives.
Frankie, as he was once know as, grew up in bustling Edgewater, Chicago where he learned the value of hard work and friendship. He spent his summers playing kickball on the streets and fishing with his father along Lake Michigan.
He was known among his friends as the one who always had a new story to tell, whether it was about exploring Central Park or helping his mother in their small corner bakery.
Joining the Military (1959–1965)
At age 18, Frankie made the life-changing decision to enlist in the United States Army, eager to serve his country during a time when duty and patriotism meant everything to him.
He served as a Radio Telephone Operator during the Vietnam War, ensuring that critical messages reached their destinations during times of conflict. His skills and dedication earned him the respect of his fellow soldiers and a Commendation Medal for his unwavering service.
During his time in the Army, Frank formed lifelong friendships with his comrades, many of whom stayed in touch with him for decades after they returned home.
Returning Home and Starting a Family
(1965–1975)
After completing his military service, Frank returned to Chicago with a newfound appreciation for the little things in life. He married his high school sweetheart, Margaret, in 1966, and together they welcomed two children, David and Claire.
He found work as a lineman for the city’s electrical company, a job that allowed him to provide for his family while staying connected to the community he loved. Frank took pride in being able to bring power and warmth to people’s homes, even during the coldest Chicago winters.
Frank especially enjoyed dancing and listening to his favorite bands like Los Zafiros, Herman's Hermits, and Tom Jones. His favorite record to play throughout the house included "It's Not
Unusual".
Building a Legacy of Service (1975–1995)
In his spare time, Frank volunteered as a mentor for young veterans, helping them adjust to civilian life and offering a listening ear to those who needed support. He believed deeply in the power of community and made it his mission to give back whenever he could.
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He also coached Little League baseball for over a decade, teaching kids not just how to play the game, but how to win and lose with dignity. To many, Coach Frank was a role model who inspired young players to always do their best, on and off the field.
Retirement and a Love for the Outdoors (1995–2018)
After decades of hard work, Frank retired and moved to Door County, Wisconsin, where he could enjoy a slower pace of life. He spent his days fishing on Lake Michigan, tending to his vegetable garden, and hosting barbecues for family and friends.
Frank and Margaret found joy in traveling across the United States, visiting National Parks, and exploring the open road in their RV. He loved sharing tales of their adventures with his grandchildren, passing down stories of the places they’d seen and the people they’d met along the way.
A Peaceful Passing (January 24, 2018)
Frank passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 76 after a battle with chronic heart disease, surrounded by his family at home. He left behind a legacy of kindness, service, and an unwavering dedication to those he loved.
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His life touched many, from his days as a soldier and mentor to his time as a devoted father, husband, and grandfather. Today, his memory lives on in the countless stories shared by those who knew him, as well as in the peaceful resting place he loved so much in upstate New York.
Words from Loved Ones
Claire Marin ~ daughter
Memories of my dad swirl around me like the music that used to fill the room during those special father-daughter dances. I can still feel his hand on my back, guiding me gently across the floor, his laughter mixing with the melody as we spun in circles, lost in our own world. Those dances felt like magic, moments where time stood still and everything else faded away.
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Even as I grew up, he always reminded me, "You're never too old to dance with your Dad, and I'll never be too old to quit dancing with you." At my wedding, there he was again, smiling, pulling me close for one last dance, just like when I was little. I can almost hear his voice in my heart, reminding me that those moments will never truly end. Though he's gone, our dance will always be a part of me, a rhythm that continues in my soul. I’ll carry that love with me, always.
John Hills ~ lifelong friend
As I reflect on Frankie, I’m filled with bittersweet memories. Those snowball fights in the winter, running outside with laughter, felt like we could conquer anything. Skipping class and sneaking off to bowl together, we’d tease each other and celebrate every strike.
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I cherished my annual visits to his lake house. Those moments were filled with laughter and stories, reminding me of the joy of our friendship. Frankie may be gone, but the memories we created together will always be a part of me. He was the kind of man, we can all only hope to measure up to.
Will Chestershire - Mentee
Frank's memory fills me with gratitude for the impact he had on my life. After returning from Vietnam, I was lost, but Frank became my guiding light—level-headed and inspiring. He listened without judgment, always knowing the right words to say.
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His mentorship taught me resilience and the importance of supporting one another. Frank’s influence will forever shape who I am, and I’ll always honor his memory.
Family Tree
David Marin
1899-1956
Francesca Marin
1901-1966
Luis Perez
1888-1959
Marcia (Acosta) Perez
1892-1960
Alfedo Marin
1919-1981
Virgina (Perez) Marin
1921-1986
Maria (Marin) Jacobs
1943-2009
Conrad Jacobs
1945-Present
Luis Marin
1948-Present
Frank Marin
1941-2018
Margaret (Smith) Marin
1943-Present
David Marin
1962-Present
Claire
(Marin) Werner
1965-Present
Bill Werner
1960-Present
John Werner
1989-Present
Cynthia Hobbs
1991-Present
Jessica (Werner) Cook
1992-Present
Joshua Cook
1990-Present
Calvin Werner
1994-Present
Francis Werner
2018-Present
In Loving Memory of Frank I. Martin
​A storyteller, a serviceman, a friend, and a beloved member of his community—Frank's spirit lives on through the many lives he touched.
