Franklin Stansberry

Frank Stansberry - cherished husband, dad, and Paps - passed away peacefully at his home on May 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family; he was 76 years old.

Franklin Everett Stansberry entered this world on April 6, 1949, the son of Paul and Ruth Stansberry. Though born in Elwood, he attended Frankton High School, graduating in 1967, and served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of sergeant before his honorable discharge in 1970. On May 22, 1971, Frank married Elizabeth Kapper, and they marked their 54th anniversary just last week.

Frank would go on to enjoy a long career with Chrysler, working in the factory for over 32 years. Following his retirement in 1999, he spent 18 years as a bus driver for Frankton, 11 years as caretaker of St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, and a brief period as maintenance supervisor for the Arcadia Development Center. Never one to sit still, Frank took on many contracting projects over the years, including home construction and remodeling; he thoroughly enjoyed the trade, especially when working with his son, Matt.

In his younger days, Frank was an avid equestrian and even competed in rodeos. This appreciation for livestock would extend into his adulthood, as he successfully raised pigs for many years, and he was a long-time member and supporter of the county 4-H organization. Frank loved being outdoors, never turning down the chance to be on the water boating and water skiing, and it was nearly impossible to keep him off the lawn mower. He was a fan of Indiana basketball, both the Pacers and the Fever, and always made sure to tune in anytime NCIS or Law & Order came across the television. Frank liked trips to the casino, and he faithfully tried his luck twice every week at winning the Hoosier Lottery, which he had done since its inception in 1989.

More than anything else, Frank loved his family and lived to create special moments with all of them. Whenever any of the grandkids were participating in a sporting event, he could be found on the sideline, cheering them on with all his heart. Though his journey is complete, Frank's example and spirit will continue to impact his loved ones, and they will miss their Paps.

Frank is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and his children, Annette (Brian) Gentrup, Michelle Stansberry, Matthew (Tamara) Stansberry, and Sistinas (Chaz) Stansberry-Norris. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joshua Stansberry, Haniah (Adam) Ross, Bryce (Payton) Stansberry, Myalissa (Andrew Richards) Stansberry, Kaden Gentrup, and Alexandra Gentrup; his brother, Larry Stansberry; his sisters-in-law, Judy and Connie Stansberry; his sisters-in-law, Eloise Bayne and Rosemary (Tom Kilrain) Skinner; his brothers-in-law, Charles, Ed (Jenny), and Paul (Stella) Kapper; many nieces and nephews; and special friends Terry Crull and Pat Fetz.

Along with his parents, Frank was preceded in death by a daughter, Melissa Stansberry, and his siblings: Jack, Rex, Linda Joyce, and John.

Frank's life will be celebrated this Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Dunnichay Funeral Home in Elwood, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 11:00am to 1:00pm, with a funeral ceremony commencing at 1:00pm. Immediately following the funeral, Frank will be interred at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery after a brief committal service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

We encourage all who knew Frank to honor his memory by sharing condolences and photos on his Remember Page at www.dunnichayfuneralhome.com