Keith Frank

Keith-Michael Frank, 76, of Sheffield, Massachusetts left this world peacefully on June 20, 2025, after a long, brave battle with cancer.

Keith was raised in Rye Brook, NY by his parents Sidney and Elizabeth Frank. He graduated from Port Chester High School in 1966 and went on to lead a life of service to the world and his community. Keith proudly enlisted in the United States Navy on March 13, 1968 and fought in the Vietnam War.

He travelled around the country landing in Houston Texas before heading to Massachusetts where he made his home. Keith lived in Tyringham, Housatonic, North Adams, Williamstown, Cheshire, Quincy, and Sheffield. He was a spiritual man who loved the Lord, read the Bible, was fascinated by Buddhism, Indigenous Culture and valued every living creature.

Often found in a tank top and flip flops, Keith was an easy going, modest man. He was a free spirit and enjoyed seeing the world and meeting new people. Keith made friends everywhere he went. His gift of gab, great big smile, giant bear hugs and gentle demeanor made him so memorable to everyone he met.

Keith was educated and well-traveled. He attended Berkshire Christian College in Lenox, MA. He earned his Licensed Practical Nurse Certification at Berkshire Community College and later obtained his Registered Nurse degree from Southern Vermont College. Keith worked as a nurse at North Adams Regional Hospital and for the Williamstown Commons. Keith was an officer of the law working as a police officer for the Town of Rye, NY for several years.  Later in life, Keith moved to Florida to try to escape New England's cold winters where he resided in central Florida and the Daytona area. He enjoyed traveling to China with friends. Keith was an animal lover owning many pets throughout his lifetime. Keiko and Zephyr were two of his favorite dogs. Keith held a variety of jobs including lifeguarding on the beach at Playland, working for The United States Postal Service, Police Officer, horse trainer, paid singer, driver for Homegas and Collingwoods, Registered Nurse and Psychiatric Therapist, to name just a few.

Keith loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and farming. He loved the beach and listening to all kinds of music. But what he loved most was a good meal, good conversation, and spending time with family and friends. He was musically gifted, with a beautiful voice and loved playing the guitar. He was also an avid weightlifter stemming from his earlier football career. As a boy, he sang in the Our Lady of Mercy Choir in Port Chester, NY, for many years alongside his father and brother.

Keith was an adventurous and talented man. He was a diving instructor holding advanced open water diving certifications for Search and Rescue and Stress Rescue. Keith had a love for Martial Arts, studying Uechi Ryu Karate, where he made numerous friends, some of which became family. He spent many summers at Karate Camp as their nurse and a participant. It was through his Karate family where he earned his infamous nickname, “Bear “which stuck with him for the rest of his life. Keith was a jokester and enjoyed telling stories, having a good laugh and getting a rise out of his friends. His “Hi-dee-ho” was the first thing you heard as he walked through the door and “see ya later”,” okay fine” or “love ya” was usually the last.  He was a well-rounded handyman who looked like Santa Claus in his later years. He was a member of the Masonic Temple. Keith knew a little about just about everything and would strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He enjoyed his morning coffee, crossword puzzles, Wild Turkey and his “smokes.”

Keith, “Bear”, “Big Guy” Frank was a gentle giant, who was somehow kind and fierce at the same time. He was a gentleman and friend to all. He was a protector and teacher by heart with a peaceful soul. He had a strong, unforgettable presence, and was one heck of a loyal person. He will be dearly missed by all.

Keith is survived by his brother, Peter Frank; his daughter Sharon Deluca (Matt) and their four children, Summer, Cadence, Reilly and Aubrey; his niece Jennifer Frank-Brooks, her four daughters Jennal, Grace, Isabella and Jennifer, and his son, Graham Frank and his son, Shaun Frank and many, many beloved friends who are forever family.

Calling hours followed by a Service will take place at Finnerty and Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington on July 12, 2025, from 12-3 PM, followed by a Repast at the VFW in Great Barrington from 3-6 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Finnerty and Stevens Funeral Home.