Francis "Frank" Thomas Maher

Francis “Frank” Thomas Maher, 69, of Des Moines, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, in the city where his life began and where his roots ran deep. Born on December 14, 1956, to Francis Michael and Mary Frances Maher, Frank lived a life defined not by titles or accolades, but by devotion — especially to his family.

Frank proudly served in the Army National Guard, carrying with him a steady sense of duty and quiet strength that would characterize the way he lived the rest of his life. He was educated at St. Joe’s Academy, Dowling and Norwalk High School, experiences that helped shape his strong work ethic and enduring friendships.

He began his career with Des Moines Public Schools, where he worked as a building engineer. True to his nature as a jack of all trades, Frank could fix, build, or figure out just about anything. Over the years, his skills and determination led him into sales, but nomatter the job, he worked with integrity and pride. Providing for his family was never a burden — it was his purpose.

On March 4, 1978, Frank married the love of his life, Nancy. Together they built a home filled with laughter, resilience, and unwavering commitment. They shared many happy years, including more than four decades in the Des Moines area, where their home becamea gathering place for children, grandchildren, and friends.

Family was the heartbeat of Frank’s life. He was a devoted husband, a steady and loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his sister Barbara (John) Selby; his children, Autumn, Tim (Stephanie), Frank (Sharena),and Nick; and many beloved grandchildren — Angelina (Nathan) Bangert, Sophia, Emma, Ruby, Mikey, Kylan, Gabe, Zayden, Miles and Avayah— as well as his great-grandchild, Finnley. Each of them carries forward pieces of his humor, his grit, and his generous heart.

Frank had a gift for making ordinary moments meaningful. Camping trips, farming, strumming his guitar, and making his famously guarded “family secret” fudge recipe were just a few of the ways he brought joy to those around him. He loved being surrounded by the people he cherished most — whether around a campfire, in the backyard, or gathered at the kitchen table. He was happiest when everyone was together.

He was a loyal friend, a storyteller, and someone who genuinely enjoyed life. He believed in hard work, in showing up, and in loving your people well. His legacy is not only in the life he built, but in the family he nurtured — a family grounded in love, faithfulness, humor, and deep connection.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Daniel , Robert, and James; and his sisters, Mary Ellen and Patricia. Though he will be deeply missed, his example of steadfast love and dedication will continue to guide those who knew him best.

Visitation will be held at Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services in Waukee from 12:00–2:00 p.m., with a service to follow at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, and a celebration of life immediately after. Frank's service will be live-streamed and can be viewed at service time via: www.facebook.com/ernstfuneralcremation.  Memorial donations may be directed to the family to be used for a memorial bench in Frank's memory to be placed in a yet to be determined location.

Above all, Frank will be remembered as a man who loved his family completely and without hesitation. That love — steady, strong, and enduring — will remain his greatest legacy.

Ernst Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Frank's final arrangements.