OBITUARY
Allen Gilbert FRANTZ May 20, 1947 – September 11, 2022
Allen Gilbert Frantz, 75, of Harrisburg, passed away on September 11, 2022 at his home after a long, difficult battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was the beloved husband of Diane (Silski) Frantz, with whom he shared almost 40 years of marriage.
Raised in Steelton, he was the son of Chester E. Frantz and Dorothy (Behrens) Frantz. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother, Donald B. Frantz, his daughters Amy Cranford and Jessica Plain, and his sons Bill Eshelman and David Frantz. He leaves behind 10 grandchildren: Mary Eshelman; Lily Bintner; Magdalene McIntyre; Alora, Coby, and Jonah Cranford; Jacob and Kimberly Frantz; and Abe and Starling Plain. He was preceded in death by his daughter Marci Lynn Eshelman.
After Allen graduated from Steelton-Highspire Highschool in 1965, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country proudly as a Photographic Intelligenceman Second Class on the USS America. During his service he attained his pilot's license. He was honorably discharged in 1969 with a PT2 ranking and several Navy Achievement and Navy Commendation Combat V medals. After his time in the Navy he graduated with Honors with an Associate's Degree in Science at Harrisburg Area Community College and would have continued to pursue his Bachelor's degree in Science and Engineering at Penn State University had he not lost his home and most of his belongings in 1972's Hurricane Agnes.
Undeterred by setbacks, his sharp eyes became invaluable during his 34 year career as a Railroad Foreman and Track Inspector for Conrail and Norfolk Southern. He was a diligent worker and took great pride and joy in his profession before retiring in 2009.
He loved music and played bugle and snare in the Drum and Bugle Corps. He also spent some years as an audio technician. At home he played guitar and piano, often gracing the house with a few bars of his resonant baritone.
A lifelong thinker and tinkerer he could either be found in his office or his workshop. He was both a skilled and detailed craftsman with the drive and methodologies of an engineer, and a man in constant pursuit of wisdom and understanding. He surrounded himself with books and teachings and was energized by learning and philosophy. Allen saw his Creator in every part of life and was constantly trying to convey his findings, feelings, and convictions about this world and the one beyond. He loved to understand how things work, but loved most the story of the Designer.
After his retirement, Allen became the Family Historian and Genealogist. Pouring over generations of photos, maps, and documents in pursuit of a story. He was able to find and connect with many previously unknown family members and his work will last for generations to come.
His love of family was not just on paper but also in his warmth, gracious provision, kindness, and humble heart. He was a deeply loving Son, Brother, Husband, Father and Grandfather with an infectious smile and a beautiful laugh, usually preceded by an extremely punny joke. He loved turkey. And pie. And Turkey Pie.
He will be in the happy thoughts of his entire family forever.
"If any you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." James 1:5
A Service will take place at Zimmerman-Auer Funeral Home, 4100 Jonestown Rd Harrisburg, PA on Thursday, September 22, 2022 at 11 a.m. with a 10 a.m. viewing. Interment with military honors will follow at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at 1 p.m.
Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethesda Mission Men’s Shelter at bethesdamission.org
OBITUARY Allen Gilbert FRANTZ May 20, 1947 – September 11, 2022
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