Franklin Earl Whitesel

Franklin Earl Whitesel, known to many as Frank, Frankie, Dad, and Grandpa, was born December 2, 1947, in Vancouver, Washington, to Robert and Lila Whitesel. He went home to be with Jesus on July 26, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington, at the age of 78.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Wayne and Warner; his sister, Margaret; and the love of his life, his beautiful wife of 52 years, Diane.

Frank grew up in a loving, faith-filled family. He attended Columbia River High School for a couple of years then at the age of 17, with a waiver from his parents in one hand and his GED in the other, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served for nearly 7 1/2 years, including two tours in Vietnam.

While home on leave from his first tour, Frank married Diane on December 29, 1967. Together they built a beautiful family and shared 52 years of marriage until Diane’s passing in 2020.

Frank was a devoted father to Heather Peru, Heidi (Tod) Campbell, and Robert (Angela) Whitesel. He was also a proud grandfather to Christopher (Nikki) Peru, Anthony Peru, Ryan (Jordyn) Campbell, Tyler (Natalya) Campbell, Abrielle Campbell, and Tyler Morgan, and a great-grandfather to six. His family was his greatest joy. Frank worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family. He worked in the construction workers’ union and helped build the Glenn Jackson/205 Bridge. He later worked as a crane oiler and operator, helping with cleanup following the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption. He also worked for the Bonneville Power Administration, traveling throughout the region.Frank lived a life of service. He served his country in the Army, served his Lord in ministry alongside Diane, including as a youth pastor, and later served grieving families as a funeral director. He had a gift for making people feel loved and welcomed. His home and heart were always open to family, friends, neighbors, and anyone in need. He treated his children’s spouses as his own and embraced their friends as family.

Frank’s faith, family, and country were the foundation of his life. He was a man of deep faith who loved generously and without hesitation. When Diane’s health declined, he cared for her faithfully, sitting beside her and loving her through the end of her life.

After Diane’s passing, Frank spent a couple of years grieving the loss of his beloved wife. In time, he found a renewed joy in life through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With a new found appreciation for a good cigar, a glass of full-bodied red wine, and listening to old records. He cherished the time he had with those he loved.

Frank always said he would live to be 120. He didn’t quite make it—but he certainly lived 120 years’ worth of life in the 78 years God gave him.

Frank passed peacefully, surrounded by family after an evening filled with good music, great wine, and the people he loved. It was a fitting farewell for a man who lived his life with faith, love, generosity, and an open heart.

A private graveside service will be held in Montana where Frank will be laid to rest beside Diane.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held Monday, September 21, 2026, from 4:30-7:30 PM at 14 Acres Winery in Ridgefield, WA. All who knew and loved Frank are invited to join his family in celebrating the remarkable life he lived.