Frank James (Butch) Brenzel Sr

Frank James “Butch” Brenzel, 91, went home to God on June 15, 2017. Frank was known for his radiant smile and generosity of heart. No one was a stranger to Frank.  Frank was a proud father and grandfather and claimed bragging rights about his family and rescued canine companion, Comet.

He was married to the late Dorothy Williams Brenzel. Frank was preceded in death by his son, Frank John, his father Frank, Sr., his mother, Elizabeth, his brothers, George and Eugene and his sister, Elizabeth. Frank is survived by his daughter, Nan, his son John and spouse, Laurie and his granddaughter Lauren Brenzel and her spouse Arthur Mugan; and his brother James Brenzel.

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to Kathy White, the Veteran Administration Services staff, Bishop John Dougherty, Father Christopher S. Sahd and Deacon Edward T. Kelly.  Blessings to Frank’s ministering angel Janet Kobrick and the Sacred Heart Hospice staff who were so compassionate in his final days. The family wishes to thank the sensitive response to their loss by Louis and Karen Rapoch and Allen and J.D. Dryzal.

Frank was born in Archbald, Pennsylvania and attended St. Thomas Aquinas Parochial School. Frank enlisted in the Army the day he turned 18. He served in the Battle of the Bugle with the 359th Infantry, 90th Division under the direction of General Patton.  His Division liberated concentration camps across Europe. A highly decorated World War II hero, he was selected to guard at the Nuremberg trials. Anyone who knew Frank sat in respect as he shared his World War II experiences. For several years Frank provided emotional support for returning Afghanistan Army combat vets.

Frank retired with 28 years of service from the A&P Supermarket where he served as union steward. Ahead of the equal rights movement, Frank is remembered by his coworkers as a powerful advocate of equal rights of his disenfranchised co-workers. Frank found joy and relaxation in fishing and held record catches throughout Lackawanna County.

Private services from the Louis J. Rapoch Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Thomas Aquinas Church were held on June 19 with interment at St. Thomas Aquinas Cemetery. Honor guard was the Shopa-Davey VFW Post #6082, who also served as pallbearers.

Memorial donations can be made to The Olga and Dorothea Dessin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Inc. at 138 Miller Drive, Honesdale, Pa. 18431.                                                                                   

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