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BOARDMAN - Family members had the chance to say their final goodbyes to their loved one, Frank McGovern, a longtime Boardman resident and beloved member of many communities, before he passed away suddenly from a heart attack on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at the age of 76.
An Army veteran, Frank devoted himself to his faith, his family, his country, and his communities, especially Alcoholics Anonymous.
Born April 27, 1950, in Youngstown, Frank leaves his wife, Patti McGovern; children, Bob McGovern (Kerry Flynn) and Mollie (Bret) Hartup; and grandsons, Caden Hartup and Rowan Hartup.
Frank's parents, Francis and Mary Florence McGovern, and sister, Mary Ann Myer, preceded him in death.
Frank was larger than life. His smile, his laughter and sense of humor filled every room. He will be remembered for his crazy socks, his love of people and how he drew meaning from supporting others.
He was incredibly grateful for his faith, family and sober life of more than 20 years, something he spoke openly about in hopes of always helping others. His Sunday meetings were an important way to start the week for him. He felt like he had a second chance at life and never missed a school function for his boys or another opportunity to celebrate all the life milestones, big and small.
Frank loved his cats and his two grandchildren, who will miss their "Baba" deeply.
He enjoyed traveling and concerts, especially the Rolling Stones from the front row with his wife of more than 40 years and love of his life. He enjoyed adventure, having made more than 2,000 skydives in his earlier years and more recently zip lining across the Grand Canyon with Patti. He was also proud of his Irish heritage. Among his favorite memories was a family trip to Ireland and kissing the Blarney Stone.
During the Vietnam War, Frank maintained Army CCTV, giving him skills he used in his professional life working at Doc's Radio and TV in his early career. More recently, he was a security consultant with Vector Security for more than 25 years. Relationships mattered to him, and often his customers also became friends.
Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, at Fox Funeral Home in Boardman.
A funeral mass will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, at St. Mary Magdalene Parish-St. Christine Church, 3165 South Schenley Ave., Youngstown, where he was a longtime parishioner. Fr. Ed Noga, a longtime family friend, will celebrate the Mass.
Military honors also will be held at the church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Angels for Animals or Animal Charity, in memory of Frank McGovern.
Frank’s greatest gift was the way he made people feel seen, valued, and loved. His legacy lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched through his faith, friendship and service.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the family.
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