Frank J. Vollmann Sr.

Frank J. Vollmann, Sr., 83, of Bonita Springs, FL, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Elizabeth, NJ, on November 6, 1941, he was the son of the late Frank and Agnes (née Ratchford) Vollmann. Frank grew up with a deep sense of family, faith, and service that would define his life’s path. Following high school, he proudly served in the U.S. Army National Guard. His lifelong dream was realized when he became a firefighter for the City of Elizabeth, NJ—a calling that allowed him to dedicate his career to protecting others. Alongside his firefighting duties, Frank and his brothers, John and George, owned and operated Brick Starter and Alternator beginning in 1974, successfully running the business for over two decades. Known as “everyone’s go to guy,” Frank was always quick to lend a hand, no matter the task. After 25 years of service, he retired as a decorated firefighter from the Elizabeth City Fire Department with the rank of Captain. Yet, his greatest joy and accomplishment was the love he shared with his wife of 60 years, Jeanne. Their devotion was an inspiration to all who knew them. Frank often said he had “already hit the lottery”—with his job, his children, his family, his friends, his adventures, and most of all, his beloved Jeanne. In 2017, Frank and Jeanne made Bonita Springs their home, where they enjoyed their later years together surrounded by family and friends. Frank is survived by his cherished wife, Jeanne Wilchek Vollmann; his daughter, Jill Vollmann-Pepe (son-in-law, Chris Pepe); his son, Frank J. Vollmann, Jr. (daughter-in-law, Sabine Wagner); and his adored grandchildren, Christopher Pepe (and his fiancée, Samantha Longlade), Justin Pepe (and his fiancée, Madalyn Weikert), and his granddaughter, Juliet Pepe. He is also survived by his brother, John Vollmann; his mother-in-law, Irene Wilchek; his aunt, Claire LaRocco; his uncle and aunt, Bob and Connie Vignes and many nieces, nephews, godchildren, extended family and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, his siblings George, Susan, and Linda, and his uncle, Sam LaRocco. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28300 Beaumont Rd., Bonita Springs, FL. A reception for family and friends will follow in The Nest at St. Leo’s. For those unable to attend the Mass in person it will be livestreamed at https://facebook.com/events/s/mass-of-christian-burial-for-f/644843468344948/? In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Frank’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the International Association of Fire Fighters Foundation at www.iafffoundation.org To sign his guest register or leave online condolences, please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are under the care of Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home – Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Frank J. Vollmann Sr.

November 6, 1941 - September 11, 2025