Francis "Frank" G. Mach

Francis G. “Frank”  Mach

Age 90 of St. Paul joined the Angels and Saints on March, 18 2024. His wife and four children were blessed to experience Frank’s passing from this life to his heavenly home.

Born June 17, 1933, to Pauline (née Hurworth) and Francis Adam Mach in Chehalis, Washington, Frank moved to St. Paul to attend the College of St. Thomas on an athletic scholarship. He graduated magna cum laude, was named Mr. Tommy by the student body, and was recognized as a Collegiate All American. Although approached by professional football scouts, Frank chose to pursue a teaching and coaching career.

After serving as a ground control intercept director, second lieutenant, in the U.S. Air Force, Frank married Phyllis Kabeiseman, teaching and coaching at the high school and college levels in Washington and California while also earning master’s (University of Washington) and doctorate (University of South Dakota) degrees in education. Every step of the way, Frank’s primary consideration with each new career opportunity was the well-being of his family—especially his decision to return to his alma mater in 1968 to serve as Director of Physical Education and Athletic Programs as well as Associate Professor.

Asked to reflect on his multiple leadership roles at St. Thomas, Frank said “My most gratifying accomplishment was playing a significant role in re-establishing the men’s athletic program to prominence in the MIAC, and the rare opportunity to start an athletics program for women and watch it prosper.”

In retirement, Frank loved adventures of all kinds with Phyllis, family, and friends at their home on Big Granite Lake in Cumberland, Wisconsin—swimming, waterskiing, biking, pontoon rides,  fishing (sorta), golfing (sorta), Louie’s brats the grill and stories around the bonfire. Frank served on every civic and church committee possible, and was usually the last to leave the gathering or event because he was the life of the party.

Beloved for his integrity, sense of fun, and devotion to family and friends (including Cappy, Britt, Yuki and others of the four-legged variety), Frank’s light and joy will be carried on by his beloved wife of 64 years, Phyllis; children Mary (Marty Duke), Teri (Timothy) Ryan,  Diane (Larry LaVercombe), and Tom (Megumi); grandchildren, Caitlin (Orga) Cadet, Sam (Sarah) Ryan, Jonah, Marisa and Noah Mach, Danielle (Kevin) Mitchell, Jacob, Paris and Francesca Fobbe; great-grandchildren Kennedy and Monroe Ryan, and Jayden Julian, Korynne and Jamie Mitchell; and many nieces and nephews. Frank was preceded in death by his son-on-law Dan Fobbe.
Mass of Christian Burial 11am Friday, March 22 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 1079 Summit Ave., St. Paul, with visitation beginning at 10am. Mass will be livestreamed https://www.morecommunity.org/watch-mass
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to University of St. Thomas, Academic Scholarships for student athletes and Our Lady of Peace Hospice.
 

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