Winnetka Obituary: Frank Farrell, 'Larger Than Life Figure'

Frank M. Farrell beloved husband of Joan Gillespie; loving father of Steven, Kevin and Brian (Stacy); grandfather of Jake, Ryan, Kailyn, Tyler, Jack and Katie Farrell. 

Long time Winnetka resident, born and raised in the Red Hook portion of Brooklyn, he graduated from the University of Detroit. His professional career started at the AC Nielsen Company, then moved to Anchor Hocking Glassware, where he learned the art of feeling the under belly of every glass he picked up to know who made each one, embarrassing his kids (on purpose of course) at restaurants across the North Shore. He then formed Frank Farrell and Associates, his own manufacturers representative company, successfully transitioning to a long and successful career as an entrepreneur from the basement of his house. He met his match and future bride Joan Gillespie on a ski trip at Boyne Mountain in 1958, never to be seen on skis again. He was the best 16” softball leadoff hitter in the Winnetka Park District for the Stroh’s Beer team, accomplished handball player at the old Lakeshore Club in Chicago and one of the many hockey Dads to chip in and help form the Winnetka Hockey Club. He taught his kids good bar manners at Seul’s Tavern over a very successful career as a great customer. He was a larger than life figure and had a personality to match. He will be missed dearly by his family and many friends. 

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Tuesday April 8, 2014, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM at Maryville Academy, 1150 N. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016 
Click for Map and Directions

Tuesday April 8, 2014, 11:30 AM at Maryville Academy, 1150 N. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016 
Click for Map and Directions