- Date Of Birth: November 2, 1919
- Date Of Death: March 21, 2021
- State: Michigan
Frank Arthur Woodhams, age 101 of Portage, loving husband, and father of three sons passed away peacefully on March 21, 2021.
Frank was born November 2, 1919 in his family home on Woodhams Drive in Portage. He was a beloved father and grandfather who is survived by his sons, Terry (Sue), Larry (Deb) and William Woodhams plus Tammy Woodhams (daughter in-law), three grandchildren, Nick Woodhams, Shelly (Michael) Rabinowitz, Stephanie (Dean) Swenson and six great grandchildren.
At age 16, Frank’s Uncle Irv Woodhams gave Frank his first flight lesson at Austin Lake Airport which started his love of flying. He earned his pilot license at the newly formed Western State Teachers College (now WMU) flight school before enlisting in the US Army Air Force during World War II.
Frank met the love of his life Geraleen Shirah, and they became engaged prior to his entering the war. He was a First Lieutenant during the war piloting C47 aircraft plus also was an instructor for Waco CG-4A combat gliders.
Frank survived 60 combat missions. He was awarded decorations under the military Oak Leaf Cluster for valor and distinguished service.
Frank married Gerry after the war and raised three sons on Austin Lake. He was the owner and operator of Prairie Feed and Grain for twenty years and retired at age 60.
Frank is remembered for his integrity, generous heart, and his love of flying his Piper Cherokee airplane.
