Robert S. "Steve" Frank

Robert S. “Steve” Frank, 82, of Elyria, passed away on Saturday June 20, 2026 at UH Elyria Medical Center. Steve was born October 17, 1943, in Hollidaysburg, PA. He came to Elyria as a teenager where he remained a lifelong resident.

Steve attended Elyria High School and left his senior year to join the United States Marine Corp. He was a Vietnam Veteran and an honorable Purple Heart recipient. After his military service, he worked for the Perry-Fay Company, Parker Hannifin Corporation, and finally purchased Smitty’s with his wife Karen in 1991.

Smitty’s was truly his legacy! Steve Frank loved owning Smitty’s and was so proud to be part of the Elyria Community. His presence will certainly be missed.

Steve was proceeded in death by his loving wife Karen on March 12, 2011; parents Clement and Paulena Frank; parents -in-law John Wircenske and Juanita Wircenske-Bruce; siblings Betty Wolf, Lillian Powley and Butch Frank.

Survivors include his son Lee (Stefanie) Frank and daughter Stephanie (Bill) Forthofer; grandchildren Logan, Luke, Jessica, and Wyatt; step-grandchildren Hendryx and Presley; brother George Frank and sister Katie Smith, along with many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at a celebration of life on Sunday July 26th from 2-5pm at Smitty’s 368 E. Bridge St. Elyria, OH 44035.

In lieu of flowers or cards, please consider a donation to any Elyria Youth Sports Program in Steve’s name as he was a huge fan of all youth sports! Funeral arrangements were entrusted to The Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home of Elyria (440)322-4626. Online condolences to the family may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com