Barbara Frank
Barbara Frank, 89, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
Barbara Frances Benz was born on March 2, 1936, in Minneapolis, MN, to George and Frances (Hendrickson) Benz. Barbara grew up and graduated from high school in Minneapolis. In 1956, she married the love of her life, Robert Frank, and together they began a wonderful chapter of life in Aberdeen, SD, where they made their forever home.
Barbara dedicated 50 years as a saleswoman for Avon, showcasing her hardworking spirit from 1975 until just days before her passing. She spent 18 years working at C.C. Lee Elementary School, where her caring heart and love for guiding children shone brightly.
Barb was a faithful and devoted member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where she and her husband were proud charter members. Her involvement went far beyond Sunday mornings. She helped with anything and everything she could, including the altar guild, funeral luncheons, and Wednesday night dinners. Her steadfast presence and willingness to serve made her a cornerstone of her church family.
A devoted wife for 44 years until Robert’s passing in 2000, Barb cherished the home that he built and designed for her and took immense pride in caring for it. Together, they raised two children, Greg and Pam, who brought them endless joy and fulfillment throughout their lives. The couple also shared a love of adventure, enjoying travels all over the world, most memorably their Alaskan cruise. Barb’s love for travel continued after Robert passed away, braving journeys to London, Australia, Egypt, China, Japan, and many other destinations around the world.
Barb was always on the go, filled with energy, joy, and kindness. She deeply valued her friendships, often gathering with her birthday group, coffee friends, and her Questers club.
Her love for her family, especially her grandchildren, was endless. She beamed with pride at their achievements and loved cheering them on at every event, finding great joy in seeing them thrive. She also adored her cats, who were loyal companions throughout her life.
Barb had a passion for making her home warm and welcoming. She loved the cozy ambiance of a wood fireplace, the comfort of a well-tended home, and the beauty of holiday decorations. Every season brought new joy, but Christmas and Thanksgiving held a special place in her heart, when she loved hosting family gatherings filled with laughter, love, and her delicious baked desserts.
Her creativity shone through in needlepoint projects, which kept her hands busy when she actually decided to sit down and rest for a brief moment or two before moving on to the next project. Barb found great happiness spending summers at the family’s Enemy Swim Lake cabin, a tradition since 1965, where countless cherished memories were made across generations.
The warmth, kindness, and faith that Barbara brought into the lives of those around her will be deeply missed. Her legacy of love, laughter, and service will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.
Barbara is survived by her son, Greg (Merleen) Frank of Aberdeen, SD; her daughter, Pam (Jim) Hay of Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren Shane, Corey, Melina, Ciara, Riley, Sophie, and Jenna; and great-grandchildren Nora and Daphne.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert “Bob” Frank and her parents, George and Frances Benz.