Francis Teachout

Francis Jerry Teachout 8/12/1930 – 8/13/2012 Frank (Frannie, Frankie) was such a proud man; proud of his country, proud of his family, and proud of his 38 year law enforcement career. He passed away after many months of suffering from a fragile body that continued to deteriorate. He loved his wife and children more than anyone could imagine and told them so every chance he had. Frank made everyone he met feel special with his generosity and kindness. Frank was born and raised in St. Joseph, Michigan. His parents owned the town bakery shop, Teachout's Bakery. Always very proud of his Hungarian heritage, Frank would often reminisce about the years spent as a young boy helping before and after school with the family business. He had a tremendous respect for his hard working parents. Through high school and until he enlisted in the Navy, he worked alongside his father and older brother, Johnnie, laboring long hours. They would pass the nights baking and listening to the Chicago radio stations from across Lake Michigan. Frank spent the Korean War aboard ship as a cook and baker, spending much of his tour in the Mediterranean Sea. He loved the Navy life and considered making it his career, but also knew that he was needed for the family business. He returned to St. Joseph and the bakery for a number of years. In the late 1950's, he was approached by the Chief of Police in St. Joseph and asked if he ever considered law enforcement as a career. He joined the force after having a heart-felt talk with his Dad and expressing his desire to move on and leave the bakery life behind. It began a wonderful 38 year Law Enforcement career that Frank loved with all his heart: St. Joseph Police Department 1956-1958, Phoenix Police Department 1958-1966, Arizona Liquor Control 1966 -1969, Arizona Department of Public Safety 1969-1977, Arizona Drug Control ("The Strike Force") 1977-1981, Office of the Medical Examiner 1982-1985, Department of Liquor, Licenses and Control, 1986-1989, OSI Investigator Department of Motor Vehicle Division 1989-1995. Frank's most favorite hobby was cutting wood and enjoying nightly fires during the winter months. His chainsaw and log splitter were the most important tools he owned but he loved his trusty 1980 Chevy Truck the most. Life is unimaginable without Frank, and we are all grateful that he is no longer suffering. He will be missed beyond comparison. He was a kind, gentle man who made friends easily and was loved by all. He waits in Heaven for his family and his beloved wife, Michelle Napoli. He is survived by Tammy Hooper (John), Michael Teachout and Rick Teachout, children of Carol Johnson; and Susie Dauost (Todd) and John Teachout (Laurie), children of Sandy Teachout and by grandchildren, Tanner and Kate and John and Alison. His dear brother, Johnnie and his sister, Judy live in St. Joseph. There are many additional family members in Tucson, AZ and St. Joseph, MI. Visitation will be held at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd. on Friday, August 17, 2012, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service at St. Peter and Paul's Catholic Church, 1946 E. Lee Street, on Saturday, August 18, 2012, 10:30 a.m. with Color Guard and burial to follow at East Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.