Frank E. Rosencranz, age 85, passed away June 11, 2013 at the Powder River Manor in Broadus, MT after a long bout with cancer and chemo.
Frank was born at the family home, North of Hammond, MT to Frank and Susie (Farnsworth) Rosencranz. He joined one sister and five brothers. During the years following he was joined by an additional three sisters and three brothers for a family of 13 children. On May 31, 1955 Frank and Barbara Bruce Davis were married in Belle Fourche, SD. Frank worked on ranches from the age of 14. After years at the Otis and John Nisley ranch he began working for Joe Irion who was both friend and mentor. The leasing of the Bob Neate Ranch was like a new life for Frank. Frank was a stockman, raising cattle and sheep with the farm land being turned into hay land. He hated farming.
Enjoying life was Frank’s pastime; he lived life to the fullest. Frank calf roped and team tied, first with George Morella, and later with Joe Irion. He was sharp at checkers, poker, and the casino machines. He loved to teach kids and talk to relatives about roping. Many Saturday nights would be spent dancing at the local establishments. He loved to pick his guitar until he broke his shoulder at a rodeo. He enjoyed bowling, horseshoes, and card playing. He didn’t have the patience to fish but could talk friends into giving him a gift of their catch. His love of horses showed through as he worked with them throughout his lifetime. Many people called him “Lucky” as he won drawings occasionally and hit big on the local machines as well as the ones in Deadwood, and often hitting a good market when he shipped calves or lambs.
Frank is survived by his wife Barbara; step-son, Jimmie Davis; seven grandchildren, Chelsea Davis, Shelley Marias, Keira James, Brandon Terzo, NaTashia Bogner, Jason “Jake” Howell, Thyea Brittenham and respective spouses; brothers, Bill Rosencranz and Jerry (Gloria) Rosencranz; sister, Gladys (Tom) Armstrong; sisters-in-law, Oralie (Pete), Helen (Ernest), and Carlene (Francis) Rosencranz; brother-in-law, Bob (Betty) Brownfield, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Art and wife Dorothy, Ernest, Morris and wife Vera, James and wife Helen, Francis , Pete, and one infant brother; sisters, Clara and husbands Ben Landguth and Carson Friar, Betty Brownfield, Alvina and husband Brooke Study; and sister-in-law Ruth (Bill) Rosencranz.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 16, 2013 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus, MT. A funeral service will be held Monday, June 17, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Broadus is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Chelsea Davis says
Grandpa’s passing is a loss that will be felt for quite some time. I have several fond memories of him while I was growing up. Grandma, my thoughts are with you and Shelley this weekend. Love you!
Steve Rosencranz says
Of all the aunts & uncles, Frank was one of the best. Never better than anyone else,never looked down on anyone, (genuine). There are very few like him. One in a Million.
See ya Alzada.
Steve & Kathy
Shan Carter says
Barbara, I’m very sorry to hear about Frank. My thoughts and prayers are with you. He will be greatly missed around town. Love ya Lots
Anita & Wayne Wetherelt says
Our t houghts & prayers to all of Franks families.
Vic and Laura Lee Ullrich says
Frank was truly one of a kind. I have good memories of him gruffly teasing me when I was a kid. HIs off the wall comments always took me off guard and sometimes it would take a hour or so after he said something to me for me to get it and then start laughing. He will be missed!
Missy Moullet says
I have known Frank since I was a little girl. He always had his own very special sense of humor and such a big heart. It saddens me that I had not had a chance to see him for so many years, but his memory lasts forever! He will be greatly missed by many.
My deepest sympathy goes out to all of Frank’s family!
Dorothy Kaiser says
Sorry to hear about Frank. I used to come with Vince kaiser when he was deliverencesing cars to Frank from the Spearfish, SD dealership. Vince and Frank had a real good realationship and I know that Vince thought a lot of Frank. They could sit and talk for hours.
My condolences to the family.
Shelley Marais says
Grandpa you will be missed by all of us. You were an inspiration to me growing up and made me the person I am today. Love always, Shelley
Tom and Kathy Stieg says
Our sincere sympathy in your loss. Always enjoyed a visit with Frank. Tom and Kathy
Jake says
Grandpa you taught me a lot about ranching I will never forget anything about it I will miss you so much and you gave me the strength I need to start my adventure I will always love you grandpa, Love Jake
Lee & Sonia Fruit says
Sincere condolences to Frank’s family. He was one of a kind and will always be remembered for his wit and humor. We wish you all peace at this difficult time. Acts 24:15.
Gary & Karen Huckins says
We have lost a genuinely good and honest friend. Barbara, you have our deepest sympathy – and he will be missed by so many of us who knew him.
God Bless You, Frank.
Karalee Fritz says
I loved Frank! He was always around giving advice on one thing or another, usually with a gruff voice but a heart of gold. I will always remember being at Butch’s place with Frank giving orders, or team roping with Bob and Carroll, and Frank always had lots of advice! I usually was laughing so hard at his wit and humor that I didn’t pay attention to the gruffness. To the family, my deepest sympathies. I am sorry I won’t make it to the funeral but my thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Wayne Jr & Serena Wetherelt says
Barb & Family of Frank
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the loss of your loved one. Frank was an interesting person, never quite knowing what he might say with his sense of humor.
Take care.