Frank Bracken

Frank R. Bracken, 68, of Gibsonburg passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025 at his residence. Frank was born October 10, 1956 in Idaho the son of Frank and Marguerite (Bausch) Bracken. Most of his younger years were spent in the quaint town of Pullman, Washington. His journey through life was marked by adventure, dedication, and love.

Frank answered the call of duty by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served as a Nuclear Engineer aboard the USS Nimitz and USS Enterprise Aircraft Carriers, as well as the USS New Jersey Submarine. His experiences during this time ignited a passion for travel and discovery that would shape the rest of his life.

Upon returning home, Frank embraced a new chapter, working diligently with First Energy while building a life filled with memories. On June 18, 1988, he married Gloria Popp at Christ United Methodist Church, and together they navigated life's journey until her passing on March 4, 2021. Frank and Gloria shared a bond that defined their lives, one filled with love and adventure. After several years Frank and Gloria adopted a 4 year old boy they named Richard Lincoln. This made their family complete. The three of them enjoyed going on cruises, traveling out west to visit Frank's parents and elsewhere both in and out of the United States.

A devoted member of the Gibsonburg Volunteer Fire Department, Frank was deeply committed to his community. He possessed an appreciation for the open road and the great outdoors, which led him to become member of the Miata Club and a motorcycle enthusiast. Due to his meticulous attention to detail and discerning taste in motorcycles, dealers compensated him to travel and promote their brands while he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. He could be found maintaining classic cars and his Miata, often sharing exciting tales of racing at the Michigan International Speedway with Gloria by his side, feeling the thrill of life at 125 mph.

Frank enjoyed a variety of pastimes, most outdoors, including shooting skeet as a member of the Gibsonburg Sportsman Club. Together with Gloria, he cherished their camping trips, starting from a humble pop-up tent to their beloved RV adventures. Upon retirement, he found immense joy in bicycling and helping to care for the Maumee Bay Campground as part of the Maumee Bay Seniors, where he formed lasting friendships and created beautiful memories.

Frank is survived by his son, Richard Bracken and sister-in-law Julia Popp. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and brother-in-law Lawrance Popp.

Visitation will take place at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, May 29, 2025 until the time of services at 11:00 A.M. at Gibsonburg Community Church, 795 W. Madison, Gibsonburg, OH. Pastor Nick Blausey will officiate. Burial will follow at West Union Cemetery with military graveside rites. Memorial contributions may be made to Gibsonburg Volunteer Fire Department or Maumee Bay State Park.