Remembering Frankie, Tribute to A Pirate
Milton's own beloved pirate, who not only scallywagged the seas, creating mayhem on the Lewes Expeditions Pirate Ship, but also collected endangered species of orchids, and participated in Milton's Garden Club, died March 30 at his home.
Of course, all of Milton knew Frankie the pirate best for his gardens, including those he maintained and designed, Milton's VFW Post along with Irish Eyes on Milton's Broadkill River. Or perhaps Frankie the Pirate is best known for his turtles since he was Clam Jam's official "turtle racer," helping to raise money for Make-A-Wish during fundraisers. Others may remember Frankie for his artistic spirit with his quilling. His perseverance to find the best in any type of hardship or setback is seen in every paper flower he folded.
The VFW had elected Frankie the Pirate chaplain. And when he wasn't on the high seas, he was assisting the ladies auxiliary with their chicken and dumpling Friday night dinners. And then there was the purple martin birdhouse this sea dog brought back from one of his pirating adventures, which still stands outside Milton's VFW.
Frankie the Pirate, enthusiast with life, was one who constantly discovered and rediscovered all of the beautiful things about this world, and was forever gifting us with his amazing findings. Me Hearty, he was a treasure to us all!
A prayer service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, April 5, at Short's Funeral Home, Federal Street, Milton. Viewing will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with burial at 1 p.m. at Millsboro Veterans Cemetery.
