Frank E. Garratt, Jr., 86

In loving memory of Frank E. Garratt, Jr., of Vaughn, who died Oct. 23, 2025. He was 86.

Frank was born July 11, 1939, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Frank and Pauline Garratt. Paraplegia resulting from a hunting accident just weeks after his 17th birthday led Frank to face countless challenges, but he never allowed adversity to limit his optimism or his desire to help others. His guiding principle was simple yet powerful: “Live life with purpose.” That belief shaped every aspect of his life.

Frank pursued his passion for learning and teaching at the University of Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a master’s degree in education in 1965. That same year, he began what would become a distinguished career at Tacoma Community College.
Until his retirement in 1998, Frank dedicated himself to educating and mentoring students. He served with distinction as chair of the English and Communications Divisions, chair of Humanities, and executive dean of Academic and Student Affairs. His leadership was marked by fairness, thoughtfulness, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student.

He was an avid fly fisherman with a love for adventure that took him from the rivers of Alaska to the waters of Nova Scotia and as far south as Argentina. On one memorable boat excursion, as the captain carefully explained safety procedures and the importance of wearing a life vest, Frank’s response captured both his realism and his humor. “If the boat goes down, I’m going down with it.”

Frank served on the boards of and supported numerous nonprofit organizations, including the Center for Independence, Two Waters Arts Alliance, Great Peninsula Conservancy, and The Mustard Seed Project of Key Peninsula. A generous philanthropist and devoted volunteer, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others and strengthen his community. Devoted to family and friends, Frank delighted in lively conversation around the dinner table long after the plates were empty. He lived a life defined by service, integrity, and joy, and touched countless lives through his compassion, grace, and encouragement of others. He will be deeply missed.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Carol; son, Douglas Neese (Janet); daughter, Linda Thompson; grandsons Brandon, Jacob, Michael, and David; niece, Wendy Wollard; and nephews, Allen and Andrew Wollard. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sue Scott Garratt.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Frank on Friday, July 10th 2:00 pm at the Key Peninsula Civic Center, 17010 S Vaughn Rd NW, Key Center, WA 98394.