Frank John Claeys

Frank John Claeys, age 94, of Mishawaka, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Born in South Bend, in 1930 to Frank and Lola Claeys, Frank led a life of dedication, hard work, and love for his family, community, and passions.

Frank graduated from Washington Clay High School in 1948, where he was an avid baseball and softball player. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in Okinawa, Japan, for one year. Upon his return, Frank married his beloved Lois Weaver on August 26, 1954. Together, they moved to Bloomington, where Frank completed his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University in 1957 while they welcomed their first child. The family soon returned to South Bend, adding three more children, and Frank pursued his career as a Certified Public Accountant. His dedication and expertise eventually led him to establish his own accounting firm. Later, with Lois by his side, they acquired Jellystone Campground in Plymouth. Frank continued working until nearly 80, retiring as a controller but remaining active in both work and community life.

Family and sports were central to Frank's life. He cherished his wife, Lois, his four children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and all their cats and dogs they had over their lifetime. A lifelong Chicago Cubs and Bears fan, Frank also enjoyed bowling, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and especially baseball and softball, which he played well into his seventies. As a longtime member of the Mishawaka Lions Club, Frank and Lois shared their commitment to community and friendship. Together, they traveled, camped, and made lasting memories with family and friends.

Frank is survived by his four children, John Claeys of Mishawaka, Bill (Lori) Claeys of Edwardsburg, MI, Peggy (Danny) Orosz of Granger, and Nancy (Todd) Metzer of South Riding, VA. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Ann Claeys of South Bend, Stephanie (Chris) of Highland Park, IL, Ben Orosz of Denver, CO, and Garrett Metzer of South Riding, VA, as well as his great-grandson, Josh Claeys, and one great-great-grandson, Zayn. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Shirley Claeys, his great-granddaughter Julie, and his beloved wife, Lois.

A time to visit with family and celebrate Frank’s life will be held at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home, Mishawaka on Friday, Nov. 1 from 4-7p, with a graveside service held at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Mishawaka Lions Club, the local VFW Post #360, or charity of the donor’s choice.

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