Obituary of Frank Royer

Frank D. Royer, 75, of Niles, passed away at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, on Monday, April 17, 2017. Frank was born on January 30, 1942, to the late Raymond and Delores (Johnson) Royer in Willoughby, Ohio. After graduating from Muncie Central High School in 1960, Frank went on to join the United States Army where he served for several years. He wed Carole Rogers in 1963 and the two had three children. After their divorce, he wed the late Nancy Whitmire. After his discharge from the military, Frank managed several department stores before eventually opening his own grocery store. Frank eventually sold the grocery store but couldn't sit idle. He went on to train and become a Corrections Officer at Westville Prison where he stayed until his retirement. Frank was also a Volunteer Firefighter for Medaryville and Westville Fire Departments. He was a member of the Lion's Club and an avid bowler. Frank was lucky enough to meet Kathryn "Jean" Beaird and the two provided wonderful companionship to each other for over 10 years. The two loved going to the races, traveling to a track every weekend. He even raced at Shady Hill when he was younger. He was preceded in death by his parents and sons, Brian and Derek Royer. Frank is survived by his daughter, Sheila Royer; girlfriend, Kathryn "Jean" Beaird; Jean's children, Chuck Craig, Vickie (Larry) Mantke, and Brenda (Dean) Conrad; brothers, Gary Royer and Roger (Madonna) Royer; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members and close friends. Funeral services to honor Frank's life will be held on Monday, April 24, 2017, at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel at 3:00 p.m. with a time of visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m.