Franciscus Josephus Rosalie (Frank) Voordeckers' Obituary
Celebrating the life of Frank Voordeckers, who was born on January 2, 1939, and
peacefully left us to return to his Heavenly Father and many beloved relatives and
friends on August 23, 2023. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, he
leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.
Born in Diest, Belgium, Frank experienced the turbulent era of the German invasion,
which shaped his resilient spirit and courage. These early trials instilled in him a deep commitment to family and a profound appreciation for hard work.
We are grateful for the many childhood stories Frank shared with us, often putting a
humorous twist on what life was like during the war.
The post-war economic conditions in Belgian were challenging, so the family emigrated to Quebec, Canada in 1951, gaining their Canadian citizenship. The family later emigrated to the United States in 1959, seeking new opportunities and an escape from the snow. He and his father opened a Citroen Dealership in San Diego called Riviera Motors Service and Sales, where he worked until being drafted to the Army in 1963. His service included work as an all-terrain vehicle mechanic, breaking into the field earlier by rebuilding VW bus engines and becoming the first certified Porsche mechanic in Southern California.
It is through these experiences that Frank developed a tremendous love and
appreciation for his Country, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren.
He knew how to find humor in life’s everyday moments, always searching for an
opportunity for laughter. His sense of humor charmed Diann Wilson, who he married on April 16, 1966. Frank and Diann spent many happy years in Carlsbad, California,
owning a mechanic’s shop, Harbor Auto Imports, and raising their two children, Eric and Kristina (Portlock).
Through his love for genealogy and family history, he developed a testimony of the
Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints and was baptized in 1992. He and Diann were sealed in the Los Angeles temple on February 6, 1993. He especially enjoyed his time as the Family History Director of the Carlsbad California Stake.
One of Frank’s greatest joys was his grandchildren, and he and Diann moved to
Farmington, Utah in Spring of 2014 to be closer to them.
Frank spoke fluent Flemish, French, and English, and would switch between the three when excited.
Frank is survived by his wife (Diann), two children (Eric and Kristina), seven
grandchildren (Evan, Annalise, Keaton, Wilson, Holden, Josef, and Aurora) and sister
(Ria). Their memories of his strength and unforgettable personality will live on,
reminding us all to cherish the moments we share with our loved ones.
What’s your fondest memory of Franciscus?
What’s a lesson you learned from Franciscus?
Share a story where Franciscus' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Franciscus you’ll never forget.
How did Franciscus make you smile?