Frank Hoog, Sr

Frank Joseph Hoog, Sr., 89, passed on the 14th of Aug., 2011 at Maple Lawn Health Center in Eureka, Ill. Frank was born Feb., 14, 1922 in Bloomington, Ill. to Jeanette (Dixon) and Frank F. Hoog. He married Rita Kirby Jan. 24, 1948 and together made their home in Washington, Ill. They have 5 children; Rita (Frank) Parod, Frank (Diane) Hoog, Jr., Diane (Stan) Bersin, Stacey (Doug) Young, and Kirk (Sandy) Hoog, along with 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Also surviving Frank is brother, Dick Hoog, and sister, Jeanette (Les) Morrisey, both of Bloomington. He was preceded in death by both his parents and one sister, Winifred Schultz. Frank graduated from Bloomington High and was the best 3rd baseman in the Muny League, which got him noticed by the pro scouts. The Pittsburg Pirates sent him a "draft" letter and signed him for pro-ball. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter he received a draft letter from Uncle Sam also. During WWII, Frank served in the Pacific Theater making the initial landings on Leyte and on Okinawa. He was awarded the bronze star for his service on Okinawa. He also represented the 96th Division in sports, playing basketball and baseball. After an honorable discharge, he was invited and signed with the New York Yankees, playing for the Quincy Gems, of the Three-I League. He then returned home to Bloomington where he met his future bride. Frank continued to play ball, well into his 70?s, and was also active in bowling, dartball, poker (which included his famous chili), and "Hoog Rules" volleyball. He worked as an interior/exterior decorator until he was 75 and sometimes held a 2nd job to support his family, some of which included mail carrier, school bus driver, and gas attendant. Frank has left a trail of memories during his walk through life that we all can hold on to and remember that our lives were enriched by having known him. Funeral services for Frank will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington with Pastor Doug Hicks officiating. Burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery in Washington. Military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army and Tazewell Military Rites Team. Visitation for Frank will be on Wednesday from 5 to 7 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to either TAPS or the Diabetes Association.