Francis Patrick Volkmann (Frank) passed away peacefully at home on February 25th at the age of 89.

Frank is survived by his children Julia (Tony) Lombardo, Frank Jr. (Stephanie) Volkmann, and Erica (Tom) Kivel. His grandchildren, Megan (James) Dain, Emily (Nick) Nastasi, and Anthony (Julianna) Lombardo, and great-grandchildren: Lily, Lila, Alfred, Betty, and Nicholas. His siblings Madlyn Clarkin, Diane (Steve) Berger, and John (Irene) Volkmann. Frank was predeceased by his wife Christine, his parents Frank & Margaret Volkmann, and sister Patricia Volkmann.

Frank was born to Frank & Margaret Volkmann on March 17, 1936 in Peekskill, NY. He showed his love of nature and animals early in his childhood. Much to the chagrin of his siblings he would sometimes bring his interests inside the house, like a praying mantis that he hid under his bed until it had babies and had to be brought back outside. Frank was always curious and read everything he could get his hands on as a child. He had a love of writing, with a distinct voice that captured the reader’s attention, his first article published at the age of 14.

Frank graduated from Peekskill High School in 1954. Shortly after graduation he enlisted in the US Army. Frank explained that he joined the military for the love of his country stating, “our job is to make sure that our rights are maintained”. The army gave him the opportunity to travel around the world. Frank learned how to speak and read several languages during this time, as he always loved learning.

He married Christine (Lange) Volkmann in 1963. The two loved their antiques and enjoyed their time working at their antique shop. After retiring from Technicon, Frank shared his passion for books by opening F. Volkmann Books. Many knew his shop well and specifically came to visit and peruse the shelves of books handpicked by Frank himself. Frank traveled the eastern seaboard for decades attending book sales. If you were lucky enough to attend a sale with him it was a memorable experience. Your morning started before the sun was up, to ensure you had enough “cushion time” to arrive before the sale started. When the doors finally opened it was all business for Frank, he would leave you behind to search through tables and shelves with the intense focus of a professional athlete. After some time had passed he would reunite with you and judge your choices compared to his. He would always have friends at these sales and loved to chat after they had made their picks for the day. He would often celebrate a good sale with a sweet treat on the way home.

When Frank wasn’t reading, collecting or selling, he loved being outside and going on hikes. He appreciated different species of plants, and considered himself an amateur botanist. He also enjoyed looking for wildlife like rattlesnakes, to ensure they were protected and safe. He would take his walking stick, tuck in his socks, and set out for the day until his late seventies!

He shared his passions with all those that he loved, inspiring a love for reading, learning and nature in them. Frank was also known for his sweet tooth, love of a great meal and a glass of good wine!

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Butterfield Library in memory of Frank.

Family and friends may call on Saturday, March 7 from 4-6 at Clinton Funeral Home. 21 Parrott Street, Cold Spring. Military Honors will be rendered during this time.