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Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2001 East Oakland Avenue

Johnson City, Tennessee

Ronald Frankowski Obituary

KINGSPORT - Coach Ronald Paul Frankowski, Sr passed away Monday March 11, 2024 in Kingsport. He was the son of Stella and Elvin Frankowski (deceased) of Toledo, Ohio where he learned to love all sports on the city's public playgrounds. Ron was a 35-year veteran teacher/coach at Dobyns-Bennett where he coached both boys' and girls' tennis and basketball, winning multiple state championships with both tennis teams.

Ron had many interests. He liked photography (especially completely formed spider webs), working with kids with special education needs and collecting Polo shirts. He had a special love for backpacking, March Madness, the Georgetown Hoyas, the Special Olympics, and the local ballet. Ron served his country proudly in the US Army during the Vietnam War. Never was there a household chore he couldn't ruin but put a piece of wood in his hands and he would turn it into a thing of beauty. Ron was a shoo-in for the local traveling volleyball team due to his height and played city league basketball until he could no longer find a league for his age. The Johnson City Parks & Rec tennis courts, where he taught thousands of kids over thirty summers, were his favorite home away from home.

He adored his wife, Brenna, of 54 years and took great joy in bringing her a Pal's tea every single day.

He was supremely proud of his children, Ronnie Jr and Brooke. Ronnie and his dad shared an immense love for all things basketball. Watching Brooke play tennis and dance (especially as Clara in the Nutcracker ballet) filled Ron's heart. He loved very much his daughter and son in laws, Nina and Ryan, and deeply cherished his five young grandchildren, Stella, Hattie, Sutton, Teo and Meja.

"Big Ron" led a great life filled with love. And will be remembered forever as the best dad and husband a family could ever ask for.

To honor Ron's memory, we ask those interested to donate to his favorite organization, The Special

Olympics, at the following address:

SOTN Area 32

C/O Kelly Middleton

In Memory of Ron Frankowski

954 Hickory Cove Road

Rogersville, TN 37857

Information regarding his Celebration of Life service will be shared at a later date.

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E. Oakland Ave., Johnson City, is honored to serve the family of Coach Frankowski.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Johnson City Press on Mar. 15, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Frankowski

Sponsored by Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Not sure what to say?





Mel Ogrodowski

April 4, 2025

To my high school friend and teammate Rest In Peace!

George Kehler II

March 26, 2024

With fond memories of his mentoring at the Liberty Bell tennis courts in the `80´s !! A genteel giant with an endless smile ...

Kevin Odom

March 19, 2024

Ronnie,

My deepest condolences to you and your dear family, Frank Dogg. I´m here if you guys need anything.

With love, Kevin Odom

Susan, Miranda Peoples

March 19, 2024

He was an inspiration to me in church, and on the courts.

Scott Gamble

March 17, 2024

I remember "Mr. Frank" fondly from middle school where he taught with my mom at John Sevier Middle in Kingsport. While I never had him in class, he helped kindle my lifetime love of photography. My condolences to his family and friends. May his memory be a blessing.

John Cummins

March 17, 2024

He was a second father to me. A good man.

charles morgan

March 17, 2024

Our sincere condolences to the family. We are so sorry for your loss.

John Hite

March 16, 2024

Brenna,
I am sorry to hear about Ron.
He was a good guy.
Drucie thought the world of you two.
I hope you are doing ok.
John Hite

Gary Holt

March 16, 2024

So saddened to hear of Ron's passing. We will always have such very fond memories of him. He was a terrific person! Love you all, Gary and Kathy Holt

Shumaker Family

March 16, 2024

Wonderful memories of a great guy! Our love to all the family.

Lisa Rippetoe Mathes

March 16, 2024

He was precious and my parents loved him dearly. A life well lived

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results

Make a Donation
in Ronald Frankowski's name

Memorial Events
for Ronald Frankowski

Apr

19

Visitation

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

St. Mary's Catholic Church

2211 East Lakeview Drive, Johnson City, TN 37601

Apr

19

Service

1:00 p.m.

St. Mary's Catholic Church

2211 East Lakeview Drive, Johnson City, TN 37601

Apr

19

Service

2:00 p.m.

Mountain Home National Cemetery (Historic Section)

53 Memorial Avenue, Johnson City, TN 37684

Funeral services provided by:

Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2001 East Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN 37601

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