Francis H. "Frank" Suetholz III

Francis Henry Suetholz, “Frank”, age 91, passed away Friday, November 8, 2024, at Congregational Home, Brookfield following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Milwaukee, WI, June 27, 1933, the 2nd of 4 children of the late Francis and Otillia (Nee:Hruska) Suetholz Jr.

Frank graduated from Messemer High School “Class of 1951”. He went on to earn a teaching degree from the State Teachers College -now UW Milwaukee. It was at this time while playing in band that he met fellow flutist Barbara Whalley and on November 21, 1959, they were united in marriage. In 1966 they moved to Racine for Frank to accept a teaching position in elementary music with the Racine United School District. He taught for 30 years retiring in 1993. Frank was an accomplished Flutist. When he and Barbara were not teaching they were performing either as a duo or in various groups including longtime members of the Racine Symphony. Frank was the principal flutist with the Symphony for many years before he retired at the age of 75. He was still playing up until 7 weeks ago with his friend Martha Fergus when his health failed him. Frank was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church and the National Flute Assn. He was an avid woodworker and avid photographer who enjoyed listening to other performers. Above all he treasured the time spent with family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who will be dearly missed.

Surviving are his wife of nearly 65 years, Barbara; 4 children, Robert (Raquel) Suetholz, Edith Suetholz, William (Joan) Suetholz, Carrie (Mike) Larsen; 6 grandchildren, Alex (Lydia) Suetholz, Emily Suetholz, Natalie Suetholz, Chloe Suetholz, Andrew Suetholz, Nicole Larsen; 2 great grandchildren, Arthur and Elis; a nephew, 3 nieces, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary Anne Gross, Margy Suetholz, and Beth Suetholz.

Relatives and friends may meet at the funeral home Sunday, November 17, 2024, 3-4 pm. A service will follow at 4 pm. Private interment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Memorials to American Cancer Society or Catholic Charities have been suggested.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to his Froedtert oncologist Dr. Thomas Giever, his home nurse Jean Ortiz, our dear friend and honorary family member Martha Fergus, and the Congregational Home in Brookfield for their loving care.