Frank Joseph Schilling of Deer Park, Washington completed his life's journey, on August 22, 2024. It was a life of adventures and heart-filled experiences with his loving family and friends.

Frank was born on March 11, 1936, in San Jose, California. The Deer Park area was Frank's home during most of his childhood, where he was raised by his parents Philip and Marie Schilling. Frank caught the eye of a younger Violet Roll while attending school in Deer Park and competing in sports; and they enjoyed each other's company at school and grange dances. At age 17, Frank joined the Navy, serving in the Seabees as a heavy equipment operator. He and Violet frequently wrote to each other, and after completing his service, Frank and Violet married on June 30, 1957. He and Violet shared 67 wonderful years together, building a home, raising their son Kevin, and enjoying outdoor adventures in the Pacific Northwest.

Frank was a hard worker who had a reputation for attention to detail. After the Navy, Frank worked in the Presto Log plant at Deer Park Pine sawmill. He then worked for many years on the Deer Park City Maintenance crew. In the late 70's, Frank took a position as a backhoe operator with Conner Excavation in Spokane. His specialty was precision work around buried phone and fiber optic cable. Frank also excavated the area for the foundation of Faith Lutheran Church. This was his unique contribution to the building of the church.

Frank liked to fish. He didn't author a novel nor present a paper at a seminar, but he'd tell you all about his latest angling adventure in colorful detail. Sometimes there would even be photos documenting the trip. Frank was not a university professor, but he taught his son and family the art and science of fishing in a manner that instilled excitement, appreciation, and respect for the sport. He patiently and humbly shared his knowledge and offered advice without criticism. Frank was not a Bible scholar who could interpret, discuss, and debate scripture; but as a fisherman his spirituality was most evident in the tranquility of a stream or a secluded mountain lake. It was in nature where Frank felt closest to God.

Frank is survived by his wife Violet, his son Kevin (and wife Tina), nieces Sandy Bolt and Kristin Hergert, nephew Craig Hergert, and grandchildren Megan Waterhouse and Mark Smith Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Don and Gene Hergert.