Harold "Frank" Monk

age 67, passed away after of a courageous battle with cancer on January 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born April 8, 1957 in Hutchinson, KS to the late Robert and Linda (Mitchell) Monk. A lifelong resident of Minerva, Ohio, Frank was a proud 1975 graduate of Minerva High School, where his passion for sports and community was sparked.

Frank was a devoted "Super Fan" of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns, and Minerva Lions. Frank cheered on his teams with passion and heart. Frank participated in local bowling leagues for many years. Frank was also known for his extraordinary kindness and generosity, always finding ways to encourage and uplift those around him. Whether providing running shoes and lunch money to Minerva cross-country athletes or surprising loved ones with small gifts, Frank's heart was always open.

Frank worked hard to provide for his family, retiring in 2019 after a 40-year career as a loading dock operator at PCC Airfoils. He also contributed to his community as a part-time Minerva Local Schools bus driver.

Frank's most enduring legacy was his role as "Coach Monk." For 35 years, he served as an assistant cross-country coach for the Minerva Lions and spent 32 years coaching track. He led the Minerva Varsity Boys Track Team as head coach for the past seven years. Under his guidance, the Minerva cross-country program became a state powerhouse, achieving many championships, including three OHSAA State Girls Cross Country Championships in 2021, 2023, & 2024. Over the years, Frank coached 75 individual state qualifiers, 18 All-Ohio runners, and 15 team conference championships. Frank's commitment to high school athletics earned him the prestigious OHSAA Sportsmanship, Ethics, and Integrity Award in 2023. That same year, he was inducted into the Minerva High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Frank shared his love for coaching with dear friends Olivia Scott, Arin Rettig, and John Williams. He is known for encouraging cheers, like "Knees and elbows!" Frank inspired countless athletes to achieve their best.

Frank's greatest joy was spending time with his beloved family. Frank married the love of his life, Ann (Ray) Monk, in 1993. Ann has been a loyal and loving wife and a great caregiver in his recent health journey. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Frank will be greatly missed by his three sons, Franklin (Tania) Monk of Minerva, Chad Danner of Cape Coral, Florida, and Corey (Mary) Danner of Cape Coral, Florida. Frank was a fantastic grandfather and loved spending quality time with his grandchildren-Caleb Monk, Joshua Armstrong, Sebastian Monk, Makayla Danner, Cameron Danner, Madison Barber, and Ezra Monk. He enjoyed treating his family to meals, taking vacation trips, and spending time in his backyard pool.  Frank leaves behind his beloved dog, Freeda, who never left his side.

He will be deeply missed by his siblings Randy Monk, Kelle (Gene) McCracken, and Scott (Anita) Monk, as well as many friends, family members, and the Minerva community he so dearly loved. Frank also leaves behind his special "Frank Monk Nation" vacation family in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

In honor of Frank's memory, donations can be made in his name to the Minerva Cross Country Program, 501 Almeda Ave., Minerva, OH 44657.

The celebration of Frank's remarkable life will be held at Minerva High School on February 9th at 2:00 pm.