Frank J. Messmann

Frank J. Messmann III of Falmouth passed away November 14, 2021, in the Falmouth Hospital at the age of 82. Frank was born in Cincinnati, OH, the son of the late Betty Jane (Wenstrup) and Frank J. Messmann II. Frank had made Falmouth his home the past 21 years where he moved from Westchester County, NY. He received his PhD from Fordham University and taught English at Westchester Community College in Valhalla, NY.
Frank had a rich intellectual life. He stayed current with politics and science and was an avid reader of history. His letters to the editor were provocative, and many were published in the Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, and New York Times. He enjoyed daily debates with friends at Coffee Obsession. His curiosity about people was boundless. He engaged with, and actively sought the opinions of, nearly everyone he met, from toddlers to professors. Frank was a gifted conversationalist with subjects ranging from Ohio State football to breakthroughs in genetic research. He even learned to speak German with his extended family in Switzerland.
Frank volunteered at Falmouth Hospital, Neighborhood Falmouth, and the Mullen-Hall School VIPS program. He also assisted at the Falmouth Road Race, having been an avid runner and two-time finisher of the New York Marathon. At Woodneck Beach, Frank could be seen reading, enjoying a gourmet picnic, and planning his next overseas adventure.
Beloved husband of Erika R. (Gawenda) Messmann of Falmouth. Father of Evan and Claire Messmann of OH and the late Frank IV and Caroline Messmann. Stepfather of Monica Ruehli (John Haggerty) of MA and Thomas Ruehli (Alana Thelen) of WA. Brother of Susan Kay of IL, Carol Casey (Robert) of Falmouth and Richard Messmann (Tammy) of CA. Devoted grandfather of Bridgit and Amelia Haggerty. Uncle to nieces and nephews.
A private memorial gathering will be held for Frank at a later date. Gifts in Frank's memory can be made to the Falmouth Service Center or the 300 Committee Falmouth.