Thomas Joseph Frankenberger

Thomas J. Frankenberger, beloved husband of Patricia Frankenberger (née Abell), passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the age of 71, surrounded by his loving family at Carroll County Hospital.

Tom was a devoted father to Rebecca M. Davis (née Frankenberger), Jacob J. Frankenberger, and Benjamin T. Frankenberger; a treasured father-in-law to Heidi Peris (wife of Jacob) and Scott Davis (husband of Rebecca); and a cherished grandfather to Connor J., Kyle T., and Cameron W. Frankenberger (children of Jacob), and Wyatt M. Davis (child of Rebecca). He was a dear brother to Kathleen M. Frankenberger and John Frankenberger (with wife Beverly), and a beloved son-in-law to Ruth C. Abell (née Vanko). He was preceded in death by his father John Frankenberger and Catherine Frankenberger (née Franz) and father-in-law, Robert B. Abell, Jr.

Tom Frankenberger was a man of grit, humor, and heart-a rare blend of strength and warmth. Born and raised in Baltimore, he spent his youth surrounded by a close-knit group of cousins and friends, often the center of mischievous adventures and unforgettable stories. Whether it was a garage fire sparked by gasoline being accidentally poured down the drain or the swapping of love birds for puppies in cages, Tom's early years were filled with spirited curiosity and laughter.

His first job was delivering orders for Reilly's butcher shop, just four doors down from his childhood home. He later attended Mergenthaler Vocational Technical High School before proudly serving in the U.S. Army. Upon returning, he met Patricia, the love of his life, on a blind date and together they built a family rooted in love, loyalty, and laughter.

Tom's career included building the London Fog warehouse in Eldersburg and driving trucks for Coca-Cola and Bond Distributing. He was a proud member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Gardenville Club, and the Chorus of the Chesapeake. Tom passed his love of song to his eldest grandson who carries on his legacy through participation in his high school show choir and musicals. Tom also coached and supported his children through countless sports seasons-football, baseball, soccer, lacrosse, swimming, cheerleading, softball, and volleyball. Tom got the opportunity to relive those times, watching his son coach his twin grandsons from the sidelines playing baseball in Ohio.

Tom was a passionate sports fan, cheering on the Washington Redskins and Baltimore Orioles. He loved good music, good beer, and most importantly good company. His outdoor kitchen was a place of culinary creativity, and his knack for storytelling made every gathering memorable. Tom's spark of creativity challenged his youngest grandson when they came up with crazy science experiments together. Whether playing week long Risk tournaments, Pinochle, Poker, or Mexican Train Dominoes, Tom brought joy and camaraderie to every moment.

He was fiercely protective of his children, teaching them life lessons with humor and heart-like bringing a baseball bat along on driving lessons with his sons or building a massive six-foot tall snowman for all the neighborhood children to climb and slide down. He once drove six hours with live crabs to serve them fresh at a family wedding in Ohio-without losing a single one.

Tom orchestrated whole-family vacations, Thanksgiving dinners with one long table, and Christmas parties that were a magical, personalized experience for 75 children with just the perfect gift for each child. He was, in every sense, Santa Claus.

He had a deep appreciation for trains, often assembling garden displays at midnight on Christmas Eve or traveling across Maryland to admire and ride them. Tom shared his traditional visit to local fire station train gardens with his grandsons once they came along. He reveled in NASCAR races and never missed a chance to share his passions with others.

Tom's legacy is one of connection, generosity, and unwavering love. He made everyone feel welcome, and his presence was a steady source of comfort and joy. He lived with purpose and independence, often reminding us with a smile: "Getting old sucks."

To the man who taught us to laugh, love fiercely, and live authentically-cheers, Tom. Your spirit will forever guide and inspire us.

Funeral visitation will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Evans Life Celebration Home, 8800 Harford Road, Parkville, MD 21234 (410-665-9444). Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life and dinner reception following the visitation at the American Legion Post 148, 20 S Marlyn Avenue, Essex, MD 21221 (410-686-2353) beginning at 6:30.

Please join us as we raise a glass, sing a song, and share stories for the one who brought the energy to every event. Tom loved karaoke, sports and a good game of pool or corn hole and we will honor his memory just the way he would have wanted with laughter, music, and friendship. Bring your best singing voice, your favorite memories, and let's celebrate a life that was well lived to its fullest.

Military Honors and Final Prayers will be briefly offered on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 11:30 am at the Maryland State Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery, 11501 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 (410-363-6090).

Tom was passionate about giving back to his community, so in lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the Auxiliary Post's Children's Christmas Party in Tom's name are asked to send contributions to The Attention of Paulette Ross at the American Legion Post 148, 20 S Marlyn Avenue, Essex, MD 21221. Please make checks payable to The Auxiliary Post 148.