Gerry Frank passed peacefully December 17, 2023, leaving behind his daughter, Dagmar Huber (Ken), granddaughters Kristine (Kim), Jennifer (Patrick), and Darlene, and three great-grandchildren. As well as his youngest brother Bill (Marilyn), and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Otto and Mary, wife Darlene, daughter Magdaline, and brother Paul (Jane).
Gerry was the first born of three sons to Mary and Otto Frank of Bronxville, New York. He was soon joined by his two brothers, Paul and William. He attended Fordham University in New York and after graduating he worked for a brief stint as a newspaper reporter in Tennessee. Pursuing the same career, he moved to Kansas City, Kansas where he married Darlene Hawk and adopted her daughter Magdaline. The family moved to Denver in 1964 where daughter, Dagmar, was born. Shortly after Dagmar’s birth, Darlene died. Gerry had two subsequent marriages.
Political action was a great part of Gerry’s life. He was elected to the Colorado State Legislature and served two terms, from 1972 thru 1976. He also was nominated, ran and was defeated for both State Senate and United States House of Representatives. After his political life waned, he pursued a PhD in Economics at the University of Colorado. He had a varied career ranging from banking, city planning, teaching Economics at a local college and working in real estate. However, his passion for politics, democracy, the community, and the environment remained a driving force in his life right up to his passing. His family lovingly referred to him as The Man From La Mancha, and his friends often called him a bit of a dreamer with a caring smile on their faces. Gerry was such a kind-hearted, charming, deeply spiritual, brilliant creative person who will be remembered for lending a helpful hand to all those in need. We’ll miss you, Gerry.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 11th 3 PM at The Center for Contemplative Outreach, 3650 Yates Street, Denver. Donations in Gerry’s name can be made to the charity of your choice.
Gerry was a friend of mine at Sloan’s Lake. I even got the chance to work with him for a bit. He was a character, and I loved his passion for politics. We went to a few outings to the art museum and the capital where he showed me where he used to work. I loved and admired the pride he took in his work.
He was a great guy with a unique spirit, and I will always be grateful for his presence in my life. He did more for me than he knew.