N. Franklin Irwin
Frank was born June 9, 1923, in Freeport, Ohio, to Charles Denver and Viola Belle (nee Carpenter) Irwin.
He enjoyed life to the fullest, especially in his retirement years.
He worked several different places in his younger years and, in 1948, he was employed by the Massillon Evening Independent, where he met his wife, Jackie “Bunny” Irwin. He was a linotype operator and then got a job at the former Cleveland Press.
He married Jackie “Bunny” in Massillon on April 13, 1960. They bought a home in Cleveland and lived there until 1967. They then bought a home in Chardon and lived there until his death.
He loved school; he was a lifelong learner, having read the encyclopedia from beginning to end. Frank could spell every word he was asked and knew the definitions. He also read a lot of books, wrote short stories and poems (some funny and some romantic).
He made crossword puzzles and kept a journal from the time he was 12 years old.
Gardening also kept him busy, and he and Bunny enjoyed the Cleveland Indians, watching the games. They also enjoyed Chardon High School football games for many years.
Frank is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jacqueline “Bunny” (nee DeBos) Irwin; Rosalita (George “Gil”) Rowe, Sharon (Ed) McKenzie; son, James (Sharon) Irwin; grandsons, Mark and Bruce McKenzie, and Christopher and John Irwin; step-grandsons, George Hissa and John Wilson; great-grandchildren, Kimberly, Nathan, Ian and Ivan; and great-great-grandchildren, Mary Ann and Rayleigh.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and stepdaughter, Barbara “Barb” Thomas.
The family will host a gathering to see family and friends on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, from 2-5 p.m.
Private family burial will be at Larned Cemetery, Chardon Township.
Arrangements handled by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.
