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Ronald E. Frakes, Sr. of Lincoln, died May 27, 2012 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be 11:00 AM until 12:30 PM Thursday, May 31, 2012 at Lincoln Church of God. Funeral services will be Thursday, May 31, 2012 at 1:00 PM also at the church with Pastor Doug Bowers officiating. Burial will follow inNew Union Cemetery, Lincoln. Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home in Lincoln is handling arrangements.

Ronald was born November 19, 1938 in Middletown, IL., the son of Ernest L. and Bessie (Graham) Frakes. He married Margaret Gannon September 1, 1972. They were happily married for 38 years and raised four daughters together.

Surviving are his wife Margaret of Lincoln; children: Ron Frakes Jr. of Beason, IL., Shiela Frakes of Florida, Connie Purdue of Lincoln, IL., Tammy (Mike) O’Brien of Emden, IL., Dana Heyen of Middletown, IL., and Erica Frakes-Stagnolia of Lincoln, IL. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, sister Zelma Angelista of Arkansas, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 sisters.

Ron worked at MII for 28 years while also being a gunsmith for many years. He enjoyed making muzzleloaders along with accessories and refurbishing long stock guns. He also enjoyed woodworking by hand in his own home. He made things like a traditional step stool for each of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He loved honoring our veterans and was extremely faithful to the beliefs of the NRA: the right to bear arms and freedom of speech. Most importantly, Ron and his beloved wife Margaret enjoyed celebrating Independence Day by shooting a display of fireworks with the National Anthem and Taps playing in the background followed by a speech for the veterans given by his daughter. He celebrated 38 years for the veterans and for our freedom. All of this showed his appreciation for his and our freedom.

Please remember the good times you had with Ron and that you are not saying goodbye, you are just parting until at another time and in another place you will see each other again. See you soon. He is on his greatest journey and is watching over all of his loved ones. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, papa, and most of all beloved Father he didn't have to be.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s or to the NRA.