Obituary of Frank J. Archibald

Frank J. Archibald, born February 2, 1915 in Seaforth, Ontario. After enjoying his 100th birthday party in February, Frank passed away peacefully on March 23 in his own home as were his wishes. Predeceased in 2002 by the love of his life, Florence, his wife of more than 60 years. Survived by his three children and their spouses; Blyth (Wendey), Mary Crothers (George) and Frank Jr. (Elizabeth). Loving grandfather of George, Julie, Kelly, Jennifer, Jana, Heather, Joanne, Adrienne and Craig. Great-grandfather of Samantha, Teddy, and Daniel. Frank was a proud Canadian who served as Captain in the 17th Regiment in World War II and was awarded the Military Cross by King George VI at Buckingham Palace for his bravery. After moving to Chatham in 1947, he became very active in the community, serving as President of the Chatham Kinsmen Club, Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club (Paul Harris Fellow). In addition, he was director of several local organizations including the YMCA which awarded him the Peace Prize in 1992. He received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for his many years of community service in 2012. After WW II, he continued his involvement in the military by being very supportive of other veterans and the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment. He also served as Warden of Christ Church where he was a devoted and long standing parishioner. After receiving his BSc from Ontario Agricultural College in 1939, he became a dedicated supporter of the University of Guelph where he served on the Senate for five years. He had a successful career in the grain business in the Chatham area and was named Agriculturalist of the Year in 1981 and was inducted into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2008. The family would like to thank his caregivers, especially Rudilyn Camarillo who provided such loving care to him in his final years. It was because of Rudi, his helpful neighbours and the wonderful care of Dr. Dave Sullivan that he was able to fulfill his wish to stay in his own home. He was a man of great integrity who was an inspirational role model to his entire family. We will miss him, but we are happy he will finally be united with his beloved Florence. Visitation at the McKinlay Funeral Home on Monday, March 30 from 4-7pm. A Funeral Service will be held at Christ Church, Chatham on Tuesday, March 31 at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honour of Frank to Christ Church, Chatham or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhomc.com McKinlay Funeral Home 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham 519-351-2040 Frank Archibald from McKinlay Funeral Homes Ltd. on Vimeo.