Franciscus "Frank" Vanmeel

October 25, 1926 — December 14, 2015

Franciscus (Frank) VanMeel was born on October 25th, 1926, to Theodore and Antoinette VanMeel. He was one of fourteen siblings, born in Kerkrade Holland. As a young boy, Frank worked in the coal mines in Holland and Germany. As a teenager, he sold fabric and zippers door to door on his bicycle. Frank met his wife Gertrude (Gertie) at a dance hall, and they married two years later on October 6th, 1948. After 1953, the young married couple wanted to come to America. He found a sponsor and lived and worked in Livingston, MT until 1955. In 1956, Frank moved with his sponsors' cousin to Butte, where they went to work in the mines. He saved his money, and bought into a partnership for the Army/Navy store. During his tenure, he opened three more stores, later selling his partnership in 1962. In 1963, he started a new partnership with Guy Ossello Sr., ultimately leading to his ownership of VanMeel's Furniture and Appliance. In 1967, Frank moved his family to Anaconda, to raise their four children; Debra, Marvin, Richard, and Michael. As they grew, he ran the business with his sons. He retired in 1993, and Frank and Gertie became snow birds, traveling by motor home to Mexico and Arizona for many years. Frank was very active in many community organizations; including, The Elks, Chamber of Commerce, and the Anaconda Catholic Community. He was an avid fisherman and camper. Frank and the love of his life Gertie were admired for their vivacious spirits on the dance floor. They also enjoyed playing cards, and spending time their large extended family and friends. Frank lived an honest life, and set a high standard for his family. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He lived to be 89, and was married to his soul mate, Gertie for 67 years. He was dedicated to his Catholic faith. Nicknamed, Fearless Frank, he was jokester, and lit up the room with his genuine smile and humor. Frank was an ultimate salesman, he could hold an audience for hours with his storytelling. His ability to make his loved ones laugh will be missed by all. Frank died on Monday, December 14, 2015 at Big Sky Senior Living in Butte. Frank was preceded in death by many of his siblings; including, Marinus, Joe, Bert, and Ann. Also his daughter Debbie VanMeel-Hollenbeck, and granddaughter Carrie Dahlman. Frank is survived by his wife Gertrude, children Marvin (Paula), Richard (Keleigh), and Mike (Terri). He is also survived by his grandchildren, who called him "Opa"; including, Brian, Kristin (Scott Morgan), Brittany (Pete Lorello), Amber, Josh, Hailey, Kara (Michael Zingelewicz), Cory, Katlin (Devin Tonkin), Kayla (Kevin Wagenfehr), Michael Joe (Amber), Alissa (Christopher Robinson), Aaron, and Eli VanMeel. Great grandchildren include, Nevaeh and Johnny Sullivan, Natalie Lorello, and William Robinson. A Vigil will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Anaconda, on Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. with the Rosary at 6:30 p.m. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the services. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church on Thursday, December 17, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the Mass.