Dr. Frank Rink

Francis "Frank" James Rink of Shorewood, Illinois passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025 while on vacation in Florida, surrounded by his wife and dear friends. Born on December 29, 1949, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Joliet, IL, he was the eldest of seven children born to Frank and Gladys Rink.

Frank began his life on his grandparents' farm in Manteno, IL, where his father farmed the land, before the family moved to Braidwood, where he spent most of his childhood. His early years on the farm sparked a lifelong love of animals, especially cattle. An active member of the 4H Club, he took great pride in raising and showing cattle, winning several cattle and soil judging contests. Whether working on the farm or looking after his younger brothers and sisters, Frank's strong sense of responsibility and dedication to family took root at a young age.

Frank's passion for education and lifelong learning also developed early. A bright and hardworking student, he attended St. Rose Elementary School in Wilmington before moving on to Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox, where he graduated in 1968. His passion for learning continued at Illinois State University, where he earned a degree in English in 1972. While serving in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, he taught English and coached basketball, track, and baseball at Buckley-Loda Junior and Senior High Schools. He later returned to Illinois State University to further his education, earning a Master of Science in Reading Education, a Certificate of Advanced Study in Education Administration, and, in 1990, a PhD in Education Administration from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Frank served the majority of his career as principal and superintendent at Metamora Grade School from 1984 to 2001, later becoming the superintendent at Burr Ridge School District 180 until his retirement in 2007. His dedication to his students, staff, and community left a lasting impact on countless lives.

In addition to his professional achievements, Frank was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He married Kathleen "Kathy" Ann Grant on November 19, 1977. Frank adored Kathy and together they built a life rich in shared adventures, deep friendship, and a love that only grew stronger with time. They cherished time spent together with friends, enjoying dinners, bowling, pickleball, wine tastings, and traveling the world.

Frank was a proud and loving father to his son, Justin Rink, born in 1979, and his daughter, Heather (Chad) Hanley, born in 1982. But nothing brought him more joy than his beloved granddaughter, Eleanor, born in 2017. Frank's love for her was profound, and he found endless joy in her presence.

Beyond his family and career, Frank had many passions. He was a dedicated runner in his younger years. A lifelong White Sox fan, one of his most cherished memories was attending the 2005 World Series with his brothers. He was also a skilled carp fisherman, an avid birdwatcher, and a talented photographer, always finding joy in capturing nature's beauty and life's special moments through his lens.

Frank was a member of St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church in Joliet, where a funeral mass will be held in his honor on March 14, 2025 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to American Heart Association, the National Audubon Society or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Frank Rink lived a life of purpose, love, and dedication-to his family, his students, and the many people fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed.