Frank Crooks

Franklin Allen Crooks, 92 of Chariton passed away August 10, 2021. A Celebration of Frank’s Life will be held on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton with Navy Funeral Honors beginning at 4:00 p.m. There will be a private family graveside service at the Graceland Cemetery near Chariton at 7:00 p.m.

Franklin Allen Crooks was born April 26, 1929, to Raymond and Anna Crooks in Lucas County, Iowa. He attended country school through the 8th grade. Frank enlisted in the United States Navy and served from November 12, 1946, to March 21, 1950. He was always proud to have served.

On July 1, 1950, Frank was united in marriage to Donna Howell in Russell, Iowa. The couple was blessed with two children, Rory and Trudy, and made their home at Avon Lake for 35 years. He enjoyed his time working at Massey Ferguson, Lincoln Technical Institute and Stephens Forest.

In 1994, Frank and Donna moved to their rural Chariton home. Frank was very social and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed bluegrass music, dancing, and going to jam sessions. He always loved music and taught himself to play guitar over his lifetime. Frank was also skilled at chainsaw carving. He loved his independence and life on the acreage. Even in the last few weeks he was hopeful of “getting rid of his care taker” and living on his own again.

He will be dearly missed by his son, Rory (Kathy) Crooks; grandchildren: Eric (Jodi), Jason (Tami), Jolene, and Johna (Brian); 10 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; sister, Mary “Sis” (Marvin) Hall; brother, Paul (Sharon) Crooks; special friends, Evelyn and Minnie; and many relatives and friends.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Crooks; daughter, Trudy Martinez; granddaughter, Alisha McBride; and brother, Harold “Butch” Crooks.