L. Frank Barron

L. Frank Barron, 74, of Estero, FL, passed away Thursday, July 9, 2015 at Hope Hospice in Fort Myers after a valiant battle with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. Frank was born October 11, 1940 in Glenmora, LA, a son of the late Richard Frank and Ruth (Bradford) Barron. A previous resident of Minot, ND and the Twin Cities area in Minnesota, he moved with his beloved wife, Sherry to Bonita Springs, FL in 1991 before relocating to Estero in 2003. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, his career was spent primarily in the insurance business, ultimately leading to the establishment of his consulting firm, Franchise Insurance Programs, which negotiated insurance pricing on behalf of Dairy Queen franchisees nationwide. His success in owning his own business allowed Frank and Sherry to enjoy nearly 25 years together in the Florida sunshine, something for which he was very proud. An avid golfer, Frank was a member of Minot CC, Minnetonka CC, Rolling Green GC, Hazeltine National GC, Hunters Ridge GC and The Forest CC, among others. He was also a member of Pelican's Nest Golf Club where he and four other men were instrumental in implementing the vision of the Nest becoming a member-owned club when membership purchased the golf course from WCI in 1995. Though he joined The Forest only one year ago, Frank felt so welcomed by the members and developed some amazing friendships at his regular card games. Always thinking of others first, he also volunteered on hurricane relief teams for many years in Florida. Frank was a sportsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors. He was a die-hard fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins, and his LSU Tigers. He also adored his two cats, Jassie and Romeo. Frank was a generous man of faith, with a kind heart and a warm smile. He made friends everywhere he went. He and the family are especially grateful to his entire care team throughout his illness, many of whom will treasure the 'pocket angels' he awarded. Frank fought his disease so bravely, but even while ill, his mission in life was to make other people's day...God needed a "Daymaker". Survivors include his beloved wife of 55 years, Sherry Barron; loving daughters, Vicki (Jurgen) Barron Sumann of Washougal, WA and Nicole (Milan) Mader of Lakeville, MN; cherished grandchildren, Milan Mader III and Anika Mader; brothers, Jimmie (Marie) Barron of Wells Point, TX and Rickie (Pam) Barron of Pineville, LA; and many dear friends.In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Rex (Ginnie) Barron; as well as his dear mother-in-law, Beulah Johnson; and much-loved brother-in-law, Jeffrey David Westra. Burial with military honors will be held on Monday, July 27, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Gulf Coast Humane Society, 2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, FL 33916. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home.

L. Frank Barron

October 11, 1940 - July 7, 2015