Franklin F. Ail, 87, Lebanon, passed away on Thursday, Feb.18, 2021, in Manor Care. He was the loving husband of Jeanette Ail nee Jones. Born in Lebanon on April 6, 1933, he was a son of the late Franklin P. and Mary K. Hockley Ail.
Frank was a Lebanon High School graduate in 1951. He retired from the Bethlehem Steel Company and later from Matthew and Hockley Associates. He was a member of Salem Lutheran Church.
Frank was a well-known local athlete during his high school years and beyond. At Lebanon High, he played football, basketball, and baseball and was captain of both the football and basketball teams. He received a scholarship to play football at the University of North Carolina and after being sidelined with an injury, he came home to attend Lebanon Valley College. Frank was probably best known for his time spent on the basketball hardwood. He played basketball for the local church leagues as well as the semi-pro ball. He was a long-time PIAA basketball official for the Lancaster-Lebanon League and served as a rules interpreter for many years. An avid statistician, his records indicate he officiated at well over 1000 games in his career both for high schools as well as church leagues. He was a huge Penn State Football fan and was particularly proud that both his grandchildren are Penn State graduates.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by children, Debra A. (Stephan) Kowalczyk, Bradley J. Ail, Barbara A. (Chad) Noll, two grandchildren, Alex Franklin Perlaki and Rachel Elizabeth Perlaki, as well as several cousins.
Private interment will be made in Mt. Lebanon Cemetery with memorial services to be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Heartland Hospice, 2201 Ridgewood Rd. #180, Wyomissing, PA 19610.
