Frank J. Lach

Frank J. Lach passed away Wednesday, March 16, 2016 while in Florida for the winter. Frank and his wife Lela have been residents of the Elyria area for over 60 years. Frank answered the call to duty April 1943, just days before his 18th birthday, and enlisted in the US Navy. He served honorably in several areas of conflict ending his last year in the service aboard the newly commissioned USS Chicago as a plank member of the crew of that ship. Frank is survived by Lela, his wife of over 60 years. He was dear father to Frank Lach and Brenda (John) Noellert. Dear dad to Martha (Paul) Stefas, Prince (Maureen) Riggs and Lillian Riggs. Frank had six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and his sister Theresa (Steve) Kirby; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved family members. Frank was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Theresa Lach, his twin brother Joe (Ruth) Lach, brother Stanley (Loretta) Lach, and other family members. Frank served as the President of the USS Chicago Reunion Group and at a later date as the Treasurer. Frank traveled around the United States to a variety of locations each year for the reunion events of the former USS Chicago crew members and made friends from all over the country. After returning home from World War II, Frank obtained employment with General Motors at the Chevy/Parma Plant as a machine repairman, retiring after 37 years. Frank was an avid bowler in his younger days and as time passed, he became an avid grand dad, known as Pap, attending sport events involving his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation will be 10am-12pm Thursday, March 24 at the Busch Funeral Home, 114 Second Street, Elyria. Memorial Service will begin at noon. Interment will follow at 2:30pm at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio, Medina County. www.buschcares.com