Frank W. Blakely

Frank Warren Blakely of Stilwell Kansas, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2022 at the age of 78 at his home with his family by his side. Frank courageously battled cancer for 8 months with strength and dignity, setting the example for any and all who knew him.

Frank was born to Frank and Alice (Sally) Blakely on April 19th, 1943 in Waterbury, Connecticut. He was raised and graduated high school in Cheshire, Connecticut. He grew up exploring the neighboring woods and nearby rivers and lakes, fishing and riding his bike all over town with his (late) brother Steven and numerous friends.

He received his degree in accounting from Miami of Ohio University and his masters at the University of Indiana. Frank was drafted into the Army in 1968 and met the love of his life, Joan Blodgett, while stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas. They were married June 26, 1971 in Keats, Kansas. Frank achieved his CPA and took a job with Kennedy and Coe in Salina, Kansas, where he worked for 35 years. He is survived by his beloved mother, Alice, of Cheshire, Connecticut, his wife Joan and his two children Adam Blakely of Rolla, Missouri, and Suzanne Grauer of Leawood, Kansas. He also leaves behind daughter-in-law Joannie Blakely and son-in-law Chad Grauer, five grandchildren (Sophie, Beau and Jay Blakely; Joe and Kate Grauer). Known affectionately as “Pops” by his grandchildren, Frank was always game for an ice cream cone, a swim or a good wrasslin’ session. In addition, Frank leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, brother and sisters-in-law, wonderful neighbors and many life-long friends he loved so much.

Frank had many hobbies and interests. Most prominent was fishing and being on or near the water. He loved watching the boats come into harbor while at home in Connecticut. He enjoyed countless trips to the many Kansas lakes in his boat, Lake of the Ozarks and many adventures to Lake of the Woods, Canada with his family and all his fishing buddies. Frank was also a tireless gardener, and at any given time, would have multiple gardens going, always eager to share his produce with any and all. He delighted in harvesting fruits and vegetables and striving to make the perfect homemade salsa or jam. Over the years, Frank loved to go bird hunting behind one of his prized Brittney Spaniel bird dogs, who were more his friends than pets. Frank also loved playing slow pitch softball, shooting hoops and playing catch with his grandkids. Always sharing lots of laughs and acting half his age. And, let’s not forget, cheering on the Kansas State Wildcats in football and basketball. Frank was, and always will be, a tailgating guru, sharing lots of laughs and love with anyone he met in purple and white.

Frank was a giver, volunteering his time for his church and community over the years. Known for his infectious smile, humor and wit, Frank will be missed and remembered fondly by everyone who lucky enough to know him.

A celebration of life with military honors will be conducted at Church of the Resurrection, Wesley Chapel, 13720 Roe Ave., Leawood, KS  66224 at 11 a.m. on Thursday, February 17, 2022. THE FAMILY REQUEST THAT ALL GUESTS ATTENDING THE SERVICE WEAR MASKS

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kansas City Hospice House ( https://www.kchospice.org/ ) or Cancer Research ( https://donate3.cancer.org/ .

Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson County Funeral Chapel ( https://www.johnsoncountychapel.com/obituary/FrankW-Blakely ).