Kathryn R. Frank

Kathryn Ruth Frank passed away on October 5 at the age of 71 after a long and difficult battle with cerebellar ataxia. Despite enduring many hardships and indignities during the ordeal, Kathryn never once uttered a word of complaint or self-pity.

Born to Harry and Rose (Davecka) Roberts on July 16, 1950, in Toledo, Ohio, Kathryn attended elementary and high school in Toledo. She attended and graduated cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Chatham College in Pittsburgh, PA. Her father, who was the editor of the Toledo Blade, passed his passion for journalism on to Kathryn, and upon graduation from college, she embarked on a successful and rewarding career in newspapers. She began working as a reporter for a number of papers on the east coast, and ultimately moved into management. She served as Features Editor at several papers, including the Elmira (NY) Star Gazette and The Bakersfield Californian.

Kathryn is survived by her husband of 36 years, Gary; her brothers John (Carole) of Maryland, David, of Seattle, WA., and the memory of her beloved companions Hobbes and Emily. She also leaves her dear friends and college roommates Georgena Terry of Rochester, NY, and Barbara Studenmund of Washington, D.C. Despite the passage of time, the trio kept in close contact and video chatted frequently.

The family would like to thank the staff at Brookdale Riverwalk SNF for the care and compassion bestowed on Kathryn during the past three years. In addition, they wish to extend their gratitude to Bristol Hospice for guiding Kathryn through her final days.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Kathryn's name to the Alzheimer's Disease Association of Kern County (adakc.org).

Visiting hours will be held at Greenlawn Southwest from 2 p.m to 4 p.m. on October 23.