Obituary: Al Frank III

Al Frank III

Al Frank III

Al Frank III, loving husband, father and “Papa,” passed away in his home surrounded by family on Monday, July 15, 2019, after a 16-month battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

He is survived by his loving family: his wife of 52 years, Barbara; daughters Amy Stevey (Jeff) and Brandy Thigpen (Scott); grandchildren Brian, Brady and Molly; brothers Stephen (Diane), Bruce (Kate); and sisters Meredith and Phyllis.

Al was never happier than when he was spending time with his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. Al graduated from St. Augustine High School in San Diego, California, in 1961. He was chosen as the center for the all San Diego County all-star football team. Al met and married his wife while attending Arizona State University. Al and Barbara moved to Prescott, Arizona, shortly after graduation.

Al began his 30-year teaching career at Prescott High School in 1968. During his tenure, he was the social studies department chairman and coached football and boys and girls basketball. Al started the Arizona Club, where he shared his love for the natural beauty of Arizona by taking students on hiking excursions. He also taught outdoor living skills with his great friend, Ken Abbott, at Yavapai College. Al was an avid runner and enjoyed hiking the Prescott trails and other parts of the Southwest.

For the past 12 years, Al and Barbara wintered at their home in San Carlos, Mexico. Al enjoyed kayaking with the dolphins, golfing and toasting the sunset with friends at the sea wall. Al and Barbara enjoyed traveling the world with friends. After each adventure, Al enjoyed creating videos to document the experience.

Al was a man of honor, integrity and humility. If ever asked how he was doing, he would respond with, “Better than I deserve.” Wherever Al went, he created lifelong friends.

Al enjoyed hiking in the Prescott National Forest and maintained the trails with the Over the Hill Gang. Instead of flowers, if you would like to donate in Al’s honor, please contribute to the Yavapai Trails Association at 3615 Lynx Meadow Drive, Prescott, AZ 86303.

At Al’s request, no funeral services are planned. Arrangements entrusted to Ruffner-Wakelin Funeral Homes and Crematory. Please visit www.ruffnerwakelin.com to sign the online guestbook and share a memory with the family. For questions please contact us at (928)445-2221.

Information provided by survivors.


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