Frank E. Stow, Jr.

Born Aug. 29, 1950, in Stow, NY, Frank was the son of the late Frank E. Stow, Sr. and Grace Saxton Stow.

Frank was, above all else, a steady and devoted presence in the lives of those around him. He was a man who worked hard, showed up when it mattered, and quietly took care of others without asking for recognition. Known for his quick wit and dry sense of humor, he was just as likely to deliver a perfectly timed one-liner as he was to chuckle at his own joke. Though he could appear tough on the outside, those who knew him best understood the depth of his kindness, his loyalty, and the size of his heart.

A 1968 graduate of Chautauqua Central School,Frank spent nearly 40 years as a Maintenance Supervisor at Erie 2 BOCES Hewes Center in Ashville, NY, also supporting operations at additional campuses over the years. Out side of his career, his work ethic never slowed, whether working on the family farm, butchering for local farm ers, or preparing pig roasts that brought people together.

Frank dedicated much of his life to service. He was a life member of the Ashville Fire Department, where he served as Chief and Assistant Chief. He later served as a Commissioner for the Ashville Fire District. He was also a member of the Chautauqua County HAZMAT Team and the Chautauqua Area Search Team (CAST). His commitment to his community also includ ed several years of service on the North Harmony Town Board, including a period as Town Super visor. He also served on the Town’s cemetery board. Frank also was a member of the Harmony-North Harmony Historical Society and Chautauqua County Genealogical Society. He was very proud of his membership with the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), reflecting his deep appreciation for history and heritage. He was instrumental in the development of the North Harmony Veterans Park, an effort that spoke to his deep respect for those who served. That respect was personal. Frank carried with him the memory of his brother, John L. Stow, who was killed in Vietnam in 1968. The two shared a birthday, just one year apart, and Frank honored his brother’s legacy throughout his life.

He found his greatest joy outdoors: hunting, fishing, farming, gardening, working the land, and occasionally educating his children on tree and plant identification (often against their will). He was a force at the cribbage board and horseshoe pit, loved tracing family roots through genealogy, exploring cemeteries, and enjoyed searching for ‘treasures’ at yard and estate sales. A loyal fan, he rarely missed a NASCAR race or a chance to cheer on the Buffalo Bills (Go Bills). Frank loved bluegrass music, often playing it loud enough to ensure the whole family could enjoy it… whether they wanted to or not. Notably, he presided over legendary deer court as Judge one fateful deer season, hearing testimony from all sides and ultimately rendering a fair decision.

Most of all, Frank loved his family. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather (affectionately known as ‘Grumpa’), uncle, and friend. He was a steady presence, someone his family could always rely on, no matter the circumstance.

He is survived by his loving wife, Vickie King Stow, with whom he shared 46 years; his children,Travis (Susan) Stow of Panama, NY, Luana Schwing of Stow, NY, Sarah Stow Kelley of Westfield, NY, John (Brittany) Stow of Stow, NY, and Leah Stow of Stow, NY; his stepchildren, Connie (Gary) Carlson of Ft. Myers Florida, George ‘John'(Kari) Daniels of Panama, NY, and Mike ‘Squirrel’ Daniels of Clear water Florida; his grandchildren, Zachary Dunham, Nathan and Nicolas Stow, Kaylie, Ava, and Eli Schwing; Rogan, Grady, and Leah Kelley; and Tahner, Hunter, and Aspen Stow; his brothers, Michael Stow and Mark (Carolyn) Stow; his sister, Ron da Hatfield; as well as many nieces nephews, and his faithful dog, Buster Bear.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, John L. Stow, Matthew Stow, and Ronald Saxton; his sisters, Charlotte Grover and Margaret Ryan; one nephew and one great-nephew.

The funeral will be held at 11 am on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the West Portland Baptist Church (7081 Route 20, Westfield, NY). The Rev. Charlie Robertson will officiate. The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00pm at the Freay Funeral Home (139 S. Erie St, Mayville, NY) on Thurs day, April 16, 2026, and also for one hour prior to the funeral at the church. A private graveside service with burial will be held at the Wild Rose Cemetery, Town of North Harmony, at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Harmony-North Harmony Histor cal Society (1943 Open Meadows Road, Ash ville, NY14710) or, the Stow Ferry (PO Box 339 Bemus Point, NY 14712). Frank will be deeply missed, but never far from mind, living on in every story told, every lesson passed down, and every corny joke. If you listen closely, you just might hear him (with a grin and no filter) reminding us all exactly what he thinks and somehow making us laugh when we need it most. To leave a remembrance or to post condolences to the family, please visit freayfuneralhome.com.