Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald Chapel - Howell on Jan. 20, 2026.
It was Jack's belief that we write our own obituary each and every day by the life that we lead. Anyone who knew Jack saw his love for people, felt his generosity of spirit, and either reveled in, or tolerated, his humor.
Born and raised in Detroit, he was preceded in death by his parents Richard Frankhart of Detroit and Kathleen (McGeary) Frankhart of Fivemiletown, County Tyrone, Ireland.
Jack leaves behind a legacy of love with his devoted wife Anne (Janisse), with whom he shared 48 years of great affection and happiness. He is survived by brothers David, Paul, Rick (Gina), and sister Kathy (Tim). He was preceded in death by his sisters-in-law, Pat and Martha.
Jack was immensely proud of his nieces and nephews, Colleen Frankhart (Tim Minnell), Ryan (Allison) Collins, Karen (Derek) Graham, Clare (Louie) Latourneau, Kathleen Frankhart, Christina (Gabriel) Marcarelli, Michael Fenbert (Susan Ureste), Daniel (Laura) Steele, Caitlin (Gordon) Hyde, Lauren (Josh) Gay, Jordan (Samantha) Cunningham, and Jonathan Nadelin. He is cherished by his grand nieces and nephews, Harper and Alex Collins, Madeline and Leo Marcarelli, Matthew, Benjamin and Brooklyn Steele, Charlotte and Henry Hyde, Nolan Gay, and Jack and Summer Cunningham.
Jack was a loyal graduate of St. Mary of Redford High School, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Eastern Michigan University, and a Master of Arts degree from Oakland University. Jack also experienced indelible lessons through the U.S. Army as a Military Policeman 1969-1972, stationed in Mannheim, Germany. He led a purposeful life as a devoted employee of Shrine Catholic High School for 28 years. As a counselor and school administrator, he loved seeing talented students reach exceptional goals, but was proudest of students who struggled and ultimately reached their greatest potential.
Jack loved gathering with family, spending time at the cottage in Canada, laughing and sharing beverages with many life-long friends, pretending to be a great golfer alongside dear friends, and following college and professional sports.
Jack will be remembered for his deep love for Anne and unwavering love for his family and friends. He enriched all our lives, and will be missed each and every day.
In memory of Jack, donations may be made to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the
American Cancer Society.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM, at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, MacDonald Chapel. 315 N. Michigan Avenue,
Howell, MI 48843. A time of sharing will begin at 6:30 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at St. John Catholic Church. 2099 N. Hacker Rd.
Howell, MI 48855. A visitation will begin at 10:00 AM.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com
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