Francis Frola

December 28, 1932 - May 28, 2012

Francis Ronald Frola, 79, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away from this life May 28, 2012 surrounded by his loving family. He fought a difficult battle with myelofibrosis, a myeloproliferative neoplasm, and lymphoma for three years. He lived a very full life, touching everyone he met with his kindness, wit and integrity. He was also a great storyteller and anyone who knew him was sure to be entertained with many humorous stories. Ron was born December 28, 1932 in Jeannette, PA to Frank and Catherine Frola. He served in the United States Marine Corps as fighter pilot in both active and reserve duty and retired as Colonel and Commanding Officer of a reserve squadron at Andrews Air Force Base. He was a graduate of San Jose State University and attended St. Vincent’s College, Washington University and George Washington University. He worked for many years as a defense contractor in the Washington D.C. area. In 1998 at the age of 65 he moved to Prescott, Arizona where he taught for 10 years at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He was a demanding but much loved and respected professor. Ron’s passion was flying, particularly to places like the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon. He was an avid hiker and biker and could be seen regularly on the trails of Granite Mountain. He also enjoyed classical music, jazz, woodworking, traveling and spending time with his family and friends. Ron was a devout Catholic and member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Prescott, Ariz. He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Charlotte, children Nina (Rob Joyner), Josie (Gary Raszewski), Cathy (Dave Arnot), Peter, Margaret (Sukha Worob), grandchildren Natalie, Karin and Judah and numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Catherine Frola and sister Patricia. His family and friends will treasure his memory and the gifts of his love and friendship forever. A visitation will be held at Hampton Funeral Home in Prescott, Ariz. on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. A viewing will take place at 1:00 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Prescott, Ariz. on Thursday, May 31, 2012 with a memorial service to follow at 1:30 pm. Funeral services will be held in Pennsylvania, with burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Jeannette, PA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any contributions be made to the MPN Research Foundation, 180 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1810, Chicago, IL   60601.