Frank John Cains

In Loving Memory of Frank Cains September 16, 1935 – May 19, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frank John Cains, 89, of La Porte, IN.

Born on September 16, 1935, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Frank and Evelyn (Cunningham) Cains, Frank John Cains graduated from La Porte High School in 1955 before honorably serving his country in Korea from July 1956 to April 1958.

Frank was a proud father of six children: Mike (Debbie) Cains, Marty Cains, Diane (Richard) Bush, Paul (Sue) Cains, Denise (Steve) Bealor, and Linda (Jim) Thompson, whom he shared with ex-spouse Mary Harrison. In 1974,

Frank married Dolores Castle and became a loving stepfather to her four children: Beth (the late Frank) Browder, Rita (John) Ryder, Kelly (Don) Sheidel, and Gerry (Cindy) Castle. Frank was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dolores, his parents, sister Cheryl (whom he never missed a chance to lovingly tease), and his half-brother, Bob. He is survived by his half-brother Carl (Carla) Cains, cousin Rich Cains, his children and stepchildren, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

For over 30 years, Frank served as a postal carrier in Michigan City, Indiana, where he became a familiar and friendly face along his route.

At home, Frank was happiest with a project in front of him. He had a passion for woodworking and loved spending hours in the basement, sanding, sawing, and building things with his hands. Often pictured with a camera on his shoulder, he enjoyed capturing family gatherings, silly shenanigans, and practical jokes on film, leaving behind a library of treasured memories in motion.

Frank loved to laugh and to make others laugh, too. He was always ready with a quick comeback, a clever joke, or a perfectly timed one-liner. His comedic heroes were some of the greats, including Jerry Seinfeld, Johnny Carson, Rodney Dangerfield, Richard Pryor, and George Carlin. His love for comedy was also passed down to his children, who inherited his distinctive, room-filling laugh and his knack for finding humor in life's everyday moments. Family gatherings were often punctuated by waves of laughter that anyone would recognize as uniquely 'Cains.'

Frank also had a playful spirit, especially when it came to Rhonda and Kim, each of whom firmly believes she was his favorite, and maybe, in Frank's eyes, they both were.

He had a soft spot for animals, too. As a child, dogs captured his heart, but later in life, cats became his companions, often found relaxing in the sun while dad sat in the backyard.

A man of quiet strength and quick wit, Frank lived a full and meaningful life, marked by service, family, and humor. While he will be missed dearly by all who knew him, there is comfort in imagining the joyful reunion now taking place in heaven with his love, Dolores, mom and dad, Cheryl, Bob, and so many other beloved family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 11 AM to 1 PM on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana, with funeral services to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Frank's memory by sharing a laugh, telling a story, or spending time with someone you love.

To light virtual candle, share a story of Frank’s life or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank John Cains, please visit our floral store.