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Frank James DeMars

ESCANABA — Frank James DeMars, 92, of Escanaba, passed away on Nov. 1, 2019 (fittingly on All-Saints Day), at the Bishop Noa Home surrounded by family. He was born on Sept. 22, 1927, in Escanaba, son of the late Joseph and Marie (Pepin) DeMars.

Frank graduated from Escanaba High School and was a lifelong resident of Escanaba. In 1951, he married the former Jacqueline Desmond. He was a member of St. Anne’s Church and served as an usher there. Frank was a devout Catholic who truly believed God loves everyone and is always there to take care of his children, which he taught his own children to believe and trust in God no matter what.

He served in the U.S. Army as a company clerk at Fort Richardson in Alaska. Frank built eight houses and seven camps by hand with his sons. He taught each of his children you can do anything you put your mind to and nothing is impossible if you believe you can do it. Frank was employed by Delta Hardware, the City of Escanaba and Mead Paper where he retired from after 33 years.

Frank loved the simple things in life and often stated, “the best things in life are the simple things.” He was an avid Packer fan, win or lose. Frank loved the outdoors, hunting, ice fishing, skiing, ice skating, roller skating. He also loved dancing, music, and usually sang along loudly.

He is survived by five children: Nancy LaPalm, Alan (Karen) DeMars, Joseph (Sandy) DeMars, Timothy (Sandra) DeMars and Paul (Kerri) DeMars; eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Tom DeMars; one brother, 12 sisters, a granddaughter, Tina Kelloneimi; and a son-in-law, Glenn LaPalm.

Frank was truly loved and admired and will be missed by all who met him. His Bishop Noa Home family enjoyed his many stories, songs and his big smile.

His family wishes to thank all who were a part of his life the past eight years at the Bishop Noa Home.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. on Thursday Nov. 7, at the Allo Coolman Funeral Home (400 S 10th St., Escanaba, MI 49829), with Delta County Veterans Council rites at 4 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on Thursday at St. Anne’s Church with Fr. Francis DeGroot officiating. A luncheon will follow Mass in the church parish hall. Burial will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery.

Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.