The Downey Patriot

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Longtime resident Frank Matthew Redd passes away

DOWNEY -- Frank Matthew Redd was born in Los Angeles on March 17, 1933, a week after the big Long Beach earthquake of 1933. His St. Patrick’s Day arrival caused just as much excitement for his parents, Frank Edward and Kathleen Redd. 

He grew up in Long Beach with his three older sisters. He attended St. Matthew’s grammar school and graduated from St. Anthony’s High School in 1952, where he excelled on the football field. 

Shortly after high school, Frank joined the Army and was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. He caught a serious case of pneumonia that kept him out of harm's way in the Korean Conflict. He was a metal worker for many years.

In 1966, he married Barbara Blackstone. He also became a dad to three children: Sherrill, Michael and Robbin. Their daughter, Kathleen, was born in 1975. They raised their family in Downey.

Barbara passed away in March 2016. Their son, Mike, passed away suddenly on Dec 2, 2017. 
Frank fell ill on June 2, with lung cancer. He passed away June 19 with Kathleen, and grandson, John Paul, at his side. 

Frank was predeceased by his parents, wife, son and sisters Mary Ellen Drapeau (d. Hank) and Margaret Buckley (d. Dan). He is survived by his children: Sherrill Redd, Robbin Spears and Kathleen Richard (Ben); grandchildren: John, Chris, Tiffany, Barbara and Ryan, and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Patricia Redd, and Jeanne Callon, and many cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, July 12, at 11 am at All Souls Mortuary in Long Beach. Reception to follow services at this location.