Frank K. Close

Frank K. Close

September 7, 1926 - August 29, 2021

Frank Karlyle Close, age 94 of Monroe, passed away at his home on Sunday, August 29, 2021.

Born September 7, 1926 in Ash Township. He was one of six children of the late Charles and Gertrude (Baker) Close. Frank was a 1944 graduate of Monroe High School. He continued his education at Henry Ford Community College to receive an electrician certification. Frank was also a lifetime farmer on his family land starting as a young boy.

Frank first worked at La-Z-Boy where he started in their wood shop. He then went to work at DTE Energy Company and became enrolled in the DTE electrician apprenticeship; taking night classes at Henry Ford Community College. After completing his apprenticeship Frank worked at the Monroe power plant as a master electrician. Frank was extremely smart and excelled at his job that he greatly enjoyed and spent 38 years in the business; retiring in 1995. He also won the perfect attendance award at DTE for several years because of his dedication to his job; never missing a day of work. For most of his adult life Frank worked sun-up to sun-down; running a large farm and also working at DTE to provide for his family.

Frank married the love of his life: Joyce Kelley on June 2, 1949 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Carleton. They lived in Frank's boyhood farmhouse for years before later building a custom home in Carleton and in later years in Monroe. Together they had a family of two children. Both enjoyed camping with their trailer; with favorite destinations of Higgins Lake and Florida. Sadly, Joyce passed away in June of 2020, after 71 years of marriage.

In Frank's early years, he liked going deer hunting with his buddies. He also enjoyed wood-working, playing euchre and especially fishing up north. After he retired he still loved tending to his little vegetable and flower garden. He enjoyed watching the birds at his bird feeder and could identify them all. Even though he was no longer farming himself; he really loved a country drive and wouldn't let a field go by without noticing what was planted and how the crops were doing that season. He loved the simple things in life; the great outdoors, good music, and a good meal; preferably with pie for dessert. More than anything he looked forward to and loved spending time with his family.

Frank was a kind, gentle, hard-working man who was as true, good-hearted and loyal as they come. He always had a twinkle in his eye and knew how to make you laugh with his quick, charming wit. He was the most loving and wonderful father you could ever ask for and he will always be a north star and shining example for his children and grandchildren. He will be so dearly missed and cherished in the hearts of his loved ones all the days of their lives.

Beloved father of Marcia Close and Karl (Marchelle) Close. Loving grandfather of James Love, Alicia (Ryan) Love-Schaner, and Amanda (Kyle) Bruck. Dearest great-grandfather of Abigail Schaner, Mackenzie, Mason, and Myles Bruck. Dearest brother of Ward (Carol) Close of Erie and Howard (Allie) Close of Wildwood Florida.

In addition to his parents and wife, Frank was sadly preceded in death by siblings: Jack Close, Rhea Lantz, and Elsie Roberts, as well as his two nieces and two nephews.

Everyone is invited to a visitation on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at Rupp Funeral Home from 1:00 to 8:00 pm. A funeral service will be on Monday, September 13, 2021 at 11 am at Rupp Funeral Home. Officiating is Rev. Larry Detruf. Burial will follow at Ash Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Frank is suggested to a charity of the donors choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com