Frank Stiegler Jr

Frank Stiegler, Jr., 88, of Independence, MO, surrounded by his family passed from this life to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, August 17, 2012. He was born to Frank G. and Olive Luella Stiegler on November 11, 1923. He was a charter member of Bethel Baptist Church. His faith was an integral part of his life and his love of Christ was evident by his service and devotion. Frank spent most of his life in Kansas City, MO. He went to Southeast High School and graduated from the University of Missouri at Kansas City and achieved a Masters Degree from the Michigan State University. He taught in both the Kansas City School District and the Grain Valley School District. His greatest joy was teaching young minds the mysteries of science and math. It is evident that he made a tremendous impact on his students since he still had visits from some of them even as he was recently receiving care in the Rehab Center of Independence. In 1967-1968 he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship and spent a year with his family living, teaching and experiencing Launceston, Tasmania. Frank served in the U.S. Army as a 2nd Lt. Navigator on a B29 airplane. He served with distinction in WWII. He was awarded three bronze stars for his bravery and service. He served in the Western Pacific for Air Offensive Japan. He was proud to be an American and honored to serve his country. Frank’s passion was traveling with his wife of 64 years, Theadora “Teddy” Stiegler toured Australia, New Zealand, The Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan, Israel, Spain and made multiple trips to Europe. His curiosity for life was limitless! He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank G. and Olive Luella Stiegler; a daughter, April Renee Stiegler; one granddaughter, Ashley Nicole Thomas; and great granddaughter, Amya Thomas and Baby Darryl. He is survived by his wife, Theadora (Guinn) Stiegler; daughter, Alison Ruth Thomas and husband David; granddaughters, April Renee Vahle (Jeremiah), Amanda McKenzie Thomas; two brothers, Wilber E. Stiegler (Dorothy) and Robert L. Stiegler (Norma); three great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. We cannot forget the loving nurses, especially Dawn that cared for Frank during his illness. Thank you! Frank’s ready smile and desire to join in the family fun will be greatly missed by all those who loved him. Grandpa, Papa and Uncle Frank were terms of endearment that we will miss using. His life was well lived. A visitation will be held from 6-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 21, at the Speaks Suburban Chapel. Services at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, at Bethel Baptist Church, Independence, MO. Burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church.