Francis Xavier DeAbreu, 80, passed peacefully on Nov. 29, 2014, at Life Care in Post Falls, Idaho.

Frank was born in the country of Aruba (Dutch, West Indies) on Jan. 16, 1934, to Leo and Beatrice DeAbreu and was one of eight children. He married Lynnette Ruth Hull on March 7, 1954, and enjoyed 59 years of marriage.

Frank became a U.S. citizen after immigrating to the United States in 1940, and grew up in The Bronx, N.Y. with his siblings Eugenia, Royal Leo, Nello, John, Xenia, Yvonne and Leonard. He joined the United States Air Force in 1953 and completed 22 successful years of active duty before ceremoniously retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1975. During his first year in the military, he met the love of his life and built their marriage through time spent together in Omaha, Neb., Medical Lake, Wash., Dayton, Wash., and Onalaska, Wash.

After his retirement from the U.S Air Force, Frank completed his Master's Degree in Education from Eastern Washington University and began his new career as an elementary and middle school history teacher. Through 20+ years in the field of education, Frank enjoyed roles in teaching and administration as well as coaching basketball, football and track. He positively impacted thousands of students who remember him fondly for his unique storytelling of history and his entertaining tales of Uncle Bruno and Aunt Matilda from his time in New York.

Frank was an intelligent man who enjoyed engaging in discussions of world history and politics. He was an avid follower of current events and always looked forward to debating his views with friends and family. From his youth through retirement, he shared a competitive edge that created countless hours of enjoyment with others. From handball championships and chess tournaments to ping pong and card games with his family, Frank's competitive spirit and love for play created a special bond with those around him.

Travel was another passion for Frank as he and Lynne shared many wonderful memories around the world, enjoying cruises to the Caribbean, visits to Aruba and Portugal, the Panama Canal, Mexico, Europe, all 50 states other than Alaska, and countless summers camping near the beach. He and Lynne touched the lives of many while acting as annual camp-site hosts at Fort Stevens, Ore. and Long Beach, Wash.

Frank is survived by his sons Frank and Allan, and his daughter Angel. He has also shared many memories in the company of his six grandchildren - Brandon, Samantha, Franky Jr., Allan Jr., Ashley, and Taylor; and great-granddaughter Marina.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the Life Care of Post Falls staff for the loving attention and kindness they gave to Frank.

Yates Funeral Home was entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Frank's online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.