Frank Clippard

Franklin Delano Clippard, 78, of Cape Girardeau passed away Friday, Aug. 28, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his children and dear friend, Ella.

Frank Clippard

Frank was born April 11, 1942, in Greenbrier, Missouri, to John E. and Ruby A. Clippard.

He was a graduate of Zalma (Missouri) High School.

On July 29, 1960, he married his wife of 56 years, Catherine Wunderlich Clippard. She preceded him in death May 23, 2016. Together, they had three children, Lori Clippard, Shelly Gaffigan and John Clippard.

Frank was an avid fisherman his whole life and enjoyed hunting in his younger years.

He spent his life in the food industry as a broker and retired as vice president of Bene-Patterson Co. He also served his country in the Navy Reserves.

After his retirement, he ventured into car sales and opened Frank's Cars, operating this business until July 2020.

Survivors include his children, Lori (Fara McDonald) Clippard of Cape Girardeau, Shelly (Tom) Gaffigan of Knoxville, Tennessee, and John Clippard of Cape Girardeau; sister, Kaye Lampman; brother, Lonnie (Tom) Clippard; grandchildren, Ryan Cagle, Allison Cagle, Kendra Cagle and Logan Clippard; great-grandchild, Braedyn McElhaney; special friend, Ella Dean; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brothers, James E. Clippard and Charles Curtis Clippard; and sisters, Dora Lee Ross, JoAnn McKee and Wanda Caldwell. He was also preceded in death by his beloved grandson, John David "J.D." Clippard.

The family offers its sincere appreciation to Crown Hospice for the loving care provided not only to Frank but to the entire family.

There will be no visitation due to COVID-19. A graveside service, with full military honors, will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at the gazebo at Cape County Memorial Park Cemetery and Mausoleum in Cape Girardeau, with the Rev. Weston Wildauer officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Crown Hospice.

Ford Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.