Frank R. Van Derhagen

Frank R. Van Derhagen, 84, of Shawnee passed away Wednesday, May 19, 2010, at his home in Shawnee.

Frank was born December 5, 1925 to Frank and Catherine Van Derhagen in Shawnee, Kansas. Frank served in the Pacific aboard the USS Montpelier with the United States Marines Corps during World War II. After his service, he met his wife, Ginny, in New York City and they settled in Shawnee.

Frank worked as a heavy equipment mechanic for Dean Caterpillar and served as a volunteer fireman for the City of Shawnee. In the 1960's Frank was promoted to Chief of the Shawnee Volunteer Fire Department. He then became a full time fireman for the City of Merriam where he served for 20 years.

He is preceded in death by his wife Ginny, daughter Nancy Kasparek, two sisters and two brothers. Frank is survived by his son, Robert Van Derhagen and Randa Harrison, Orlando, Florida; three sisters, Susie Fanning, Rosie McKown, both of Shawnee, and Lucille Raley, Overland Park; a brother Maurice and JoAnn Van Derhagen, Shawnee; and one granddaughter, Julia Kasparek.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the St. Joseph Ladies Auxiliary, 5901 Flint, Shawnee, Kansas 66203.

Visitation and Funeral Service

Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 21, 2010, at the Amos Family Chapel of Shawnee. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 22, 2010, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Shawnee, 11311 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, Kansas. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.