Frank Allan Rackley

Frank Allan Rackley, 79, died peacefully at home, with his wife Marion by his side, on September 29th, 2023, in Florence Montana after a long battle with a chronic disease. 

Frank was born on July 19, 1944, in Fresno, California, to Frank and Jeanne Rackley. Frank spent much of his childhood in Fresno, California. He enjoyed competing and excelling in martial arts (Judo) Frank "Bucky", as he became well known in judo competitions; obtained his black belt advancement at the age of 16 in Los Angeles, California. Just a few short years after that, "Bucky" was selected to join the 1964 United States Olympic Judo team, which traveled to Tokyo, Japan.  Frank also competed for the US at the World Judo Championships in October 1965. 

Frank joined the army in 1965 and served until 1968, he was stationed in Fort Sam Houston, Texas. On September 7th, 1965, Frank and Katheran Lindsey were married.  Frank and Kathy had two children, Sean and Carolyn.  After completing his Army years, Frank and his family returned to California where he pursued educational opportunities which led to him becoming a police officer for the City of San Francisco.  Seven years into this career he was injured on the job and medically retired.  He then pursued other interests in military history, strategy, archaeology, photography, and many others that lead him to becoming a sought-after consultant, training instructor, advocate, editor, mentor, and mediator.   Frank's desire to serve others continued even after his early retirement working/serving as a professional educator and Chairman for the American Heart Association for 10 years.   Frank was instrumental in developing and presenting numerous courses on crisis management, domestic violence, SIDS education, and other topics and disciplines.  

Frank married Marion in Carson City, Nevada on April 3rd, 1992. With that marriage came three stepchildren, David, Dean, and Cindy.  Frank and Marion relocated to Virginia in June 1992. It was there he sought out his next experience(s). Frank then became a magistrate in Virginia’s Judicial System for a few years before starting his next adventure. He worked for the Alexanderia Seaport Foundation, which is a nonprofit working with disadvantaged youths by teaching them skills by building wooden boats. The aspect Frank enjoyed the most with this position was being able to work, teach and serve as an advocate for the young disadvantaged, showing them how to work with their hands.  

Marion's job took them back west, (Montana) in December 2004, where Frank finally retired and enjoyed his time enhancing his interests: hunting, fishing, boating, archaeology, history, art, welder, carver, fly tyer, etc.  Frank was a kind and encouraging soul. He loved his family, dogs, and his projects. He was a loving husband/father/friend and was so excited to share his current project(s) or recent “finds” with others.   

Frank was proceeded in death by his father, mother, and a brother.  He is survived by a loving family, wife Marion, his son Sean, his daughter Carolyn and her family, stepchildren David, Dean, and Cindy and their families, sister Melinda, brother Joe and his family; 10 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.  There are also numerous others that considered Frank and Marion as secondary parents/grandparents.   

A Memorial Service will be held at Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery 1911 Tower Street, Missoula, Montana, 59804 on Friday November 3rd, 2023, at 3:00 PM with a reception to follow with the family at the American Legion Post 27 825 Ronan Street, Missoula Montana, 59801 from 3:45-5:30 PM.   

Cards and testimonies can be sent to the family at 16625 Highland Dr. Florence, Mt. 59833. 

Donations can be made to a charity of your choice on behalf of Frank.