Franklin “Frank” E. VanDeSteeg, age 82, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024 in Woodbury.
Frank was born June 8, 1942 in Sauk Centre to M. Franklin and Lorrayne (Gerlach) VanDeSteeg. He proudly served his country in U.S. Naval Intelligence, NAIRU 811 from 1963-1970. After being honorably discharged, Frank began working for MNDOT and retired in 2005 after 35 years. On January 9, 2010, Frank was ordained as an Episcopal priest, and worked with the St. Luke’s Hastings clergy team until 2018.
In his spare time, he was an avid fisherman. Church Fish Fry Fundraisers were a big part of Frank’s life. He spent many weekends catching, cleaning, frying and serving the fish, but never eating any. Other hobbies Frank enjoyed were camping, traveling and cooking. He was also involved in the Hastings Community Theater for several years. After much reluctance, Lyn finally dragged Frank to Disney World, and he was hooked. So much so, they eventually bought a timeshare and continued to make memories for years. One of his greatest memories was introducing his grandchildren to Disney World for the first time.
Frank is preceded in death by his parents, M. Franklin and Lorrayne (Gerlach) VanDeSteeg; and by many beloved dogs.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Lynette; daughter, Heidi V. Langenfeld; son-in-law, Randy Langenfeld; grandchildren, Jessie Langenfeld (Sylvia Holsen), Lexie Langenfeld; siblings, Carl (Judy) VanDeSteeg, RoxAnn (David) Bergquist; many nieces and nephews; nine exchange students from around the world; and many other relatives and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 615 Vermillion Street, Hastings with a visitation one hour prior to the time of the service. Interment will take place on a later date at St. Luke’s Cemetery, Hastings.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church or Emotional Rescue LLC via Hastings Veterinary Clinic.
For guestbook and further information, please visit www.hastingsmnfuneral.com.
Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings is handling arrangements.
