Francis Ray Kumler

Francis “Frank” R. Kumler

Gardening and Dahlia Enthusiast -

Francis R. “Frank” Kumler, 86, of Mechanicsburg, passed away peacefully in his favorite easy chair while watching the morning news on Monday, January 4, 2016, at his home in Messiah Village.

Born on November 20, 1929 in Mechanicsburg, he was the son of the late Ray H. and Sarah K. (Myers) Kumler and was also predeceased by his son, Norman. After graduating from Mechanicsburg High School in 1949, Frank spent quite a few years working in the meat departments of local Weis Markets. In 1969, he became a PA food inspector/supervisor and, subsequently, transferred to the USDA food inspection program. Over the years he took pertinent graduate courses at both Penn State and the University of Texas. He served his country during the period of the Korean War as a member of the 7 ^th Army Bailey Bridge Unit stationed in Germany.

He and his wife, Ruth E. (Shoemaker) Kumler, just celebrated their 60 ^th wedding anniversary in June. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son Richard and his wife, Shirley, of Mechanicsburg, seven Kumler grandchildren (Michael, Benjamen, Shane, Jacob, Jessica, Zachary and Amanda), three step-grandchildren (Kristie Green, and Joshua and Jacob Kelley) and seven greats (the oldest of whom, Livie, was “Gramps’ special little girl”).

Frank was a licensed amateur radio operator, life-long member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, life member of both NARFE and Penn State Alumni and also had membership in the Catholic War Veterans Post 4 and Mechanicsburg American Legion Post 109.  During his retirement, he enjoyed working with stained glass and was an instructor for the 2008 spring session of the Pathways Institute at Messiah Village. He also volunteered at the Bailey Street Coffee Shop and helped to water the hanging baskets on a regular basis over the years. Photography and gardening (specializing in dahlias) enriched the days of his retirement.

All are welcome to join Frank’s family at his gathering of family and friends on Monday, January 11, 2016, from 1:00 p.m. until time of service at 2:00 p.m. at Messiah Village Chapel, 100 Mt. Allen Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Fr. C. Anthony Miller and Reverend Terry A. Rose officiating.  Interment in Mechanicsburg Cemetery in Mechanicsburg will be at the family’s convenience.  Cremation was private.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Messiah Village Endowment Fund, 100 Mt. Allen Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; www.MessiahVillage.org ; or St. Joseph Catholic Church, 410 East Simpson Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; www.StJosephMech.org.

Frank’s family has entrusted his care to Myers – Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Frank’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, and sign his official guest book at www.Myers-Buhrig.com .