Gary R. Frake, DDS

Dr. Gary R. Frake, DDS September 10, 1944 - May 16, 2020 “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21)

Dr. Gary Russell Frake, a native and life-long resident of Seaside Heights, N.J., passed away into the loving care of his Lord and Savior on May 16, 2020.

Gary was born September 10, 1944 to Percy and Mildred Lillian “Billie” Frake. Growing up in Seaside Heights,

Gary developed a deep love for boating and fishing along the Jersey coast. His father, Percy, an industrial arts teacher at Neptune High School, also instilled in him a love of craftsmanship. Gary spent many joyful hours on his father’s classic Chris Craft runabout, Miss Seaside Heights.

During his college years, he enjoyed summers as a park ranger at Island Beach State Park. Gary completed his undergraduate degree at Morris Harvey College and dental school at the University of West Virginia. Upon graduation, he held positions at several dental practices in the Ocean County area, before opening up his own dental practice in Seaside Heights. In the decades that followed,

Gary was the original “hometown” doctor who developed deep ties to both his community and family. Gary attended Ocean County Baptist Church, and enjoyed caring for his animals, working on his boat, 1946 Jeep, and model trains. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Percy and Mildred.

He is survived by his cousin, W. Larne Gabriel and wife, Janet, of Kirkland, WA. He is also survived by his dear friends, Joanne Whiteman and family, and lifelong friends, Russell, Ronald, and Raymond Risden, and their families.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be sent to Popcorn Park Zoo, 1 Humane Way, Forked River, NJ 08731.

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