Francis George Pelkey, Jr.

Francis George Pelkey, Jr., a proud Army veteran, passed away surrounded by his family on his 76th birthday, October 12, 2023. Francis George Pelkey, Junior, who preferred to be called Frank, was born on October 12, 1947 in Black River, NY as the youngest son of Francis and Sarah Pelkey. This past year, he fought a courageous battle with cirrhosis of the liver. Despite the medical hardships he endured, he stayed strong and as positive as he could.

Frank had an incredible educational career. He attended Norwich University where he was active in college sports. He graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and History. While attending college, he met Carolyn Elizabeth McLaughlin and married her on August 28, 1971. After that, he earned a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Syracuse University in 1972. Later, he earned a Masters of Science of Strategic Intelligence from the Defense Intelligence College in 1987.

Frank had an impressive military career in the Army which began in 1970. He moved up as an officer as he completed military training as a Green Beret Special Forces, Ranger and Airborne. In 1998, Frank served with NATO during the war in Bosnia.  Eventually he went into the Reserves and began working at the Defense Intelligence Agency and then was employed with the F.B.I. as an Intelligence Research Specialist. Frank retired from the U.S. Army Reserves as a Colonel in 2001.

Frank loved his pets and treated his dogs and cats like family. He enjoyed studying history and reading books about different historical events. Frank loved gardening and his yard won awards. His vibrant yard was filled with flowers that were enjoyed by all. His hobbies included collecting various things and spending time with his family. He was a member of Saint Pius X Catholic Church, former Boy Scout leader, Knights of Columbus and the American Legion.

Frank is survived by his wife, Carolyn, their 4 children and spouses: Jared, Wayne and his spouse Emily, Lance and his spouse Carrie, and Apryl and her spouse Don.  They also have 9 grandchildren: Carlayna, Courtney, Liam, Brianna, Alaina, Aidan, Lily, Keira, and Cameron. Recently their first great grandchild, Orion, was born.

Frank will be honored at a memorial service on November 25 at 10:30am at Saint Pius X Catholic Church. He will later be buried near his parents and his brother Edmond, in Black River Cemetery. Please donate to the American Legion on his behalf in lieu of flowers.