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.
Sponsored by Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
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
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Funeral services provided by:
Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services2001 East Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN 37601
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