Frank Sullivan

Frank Sullivan, age 70, died Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, in the family farmhouse on Horn's Lane in Dover where he was born, reared and lived his life.

Frank came into this world on Jul. 24, 1941, a son of the late Roy and Mildred Hines Sullivan. As a youth he sold Grit, a weekly newspaper popular in rural areas. Frank graduated from Dover High School and was employed by the Stone Creek Brick Yard for thirty-nine years before his retirement. As a guest of his friend Don Marshall who was taking a class of eighth grader from Dover Middle School to Washington, D.C., Frank spotted stacks of bricks that he knew he had helped make at the brick yard; the fact that something he had helped create was being used to build a government building in the nation's capital made him very proud and happy.

Frank enjoyed raising goats, hogs, and chickens, as well as gardening. He often shared his produce with family, friends and neighbors. Years ago, Frank would ride with Tuscarawas Co. Sheriff's deputies. He also volunteered at Tuscora Park in New Philadelphia maintaining the grounds. He loved being around children. Frank was asked by the U.S. Forest Service to represent them locally as Smokey the Bear in parades and other public events, this was a bright spot in his life, as both children and adults would have their pictures taken with him while he was in costume.

He enjoyed keeping busy, and was always available to help his neighbors. In the past few years, he liked to sit on his front porch "neighboring" and watching cars as they passed. On Jul. 27, 2011, Crossroads Hospice sponsored a trip for Frank to a Cleveland Indians Baseball game; he had the time of his life and was forever grateful.

Frank very much appreciated the help and excellent care he received from Tender Home Health and Crossroads Hospice, without which he would not have been able to stay in his home.

Frank always had a genuine concern for others in spite of the health limitations that plagued him later in life. When speaking about Frank, an aide remarked, "When we pass from this life, we become guardian angels for those we leave behind." If that is true, and if you had Frank Sullivan as a friend while he was here, you will have one of the most conscientious angels God ever made.

Survivors include a brother, John (Shirley) Sullivan of Wainwright; six nieces and three nephews; and his beloved cat, Cali.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by three brothers, Ray, Bill and Walter Sullivan.

A graveside service will be held Friday, Feb. 24, at 10:30 a.m. in Ridgecrest Memory Gardens, Dover, with Pastor Max Canfield of the First Church of the Brethren in New Philadelphia officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads Hospice, 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr., Ste. E, Uniontown, OH 44685.