Springfield — Franklyn "Frank" Joseph England, 62, of Springfield, Illinois, died Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022, at his home in Springfield. Frank was born March 28, 1960, in Springfield, the son of Franklyn O. and Mary Jean Mellenberger England. Frank married Valeda J. Hickey June 7, 1980, at Cornland Christian Church in Cornland. Frank was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Valeda, in 2020.

Frank grew up in Springfield, attending Little Flower Catholic Grade School and Griffin High School, graduating in 1978. He was employed at The Franklin Life Insurance Co. for 26 years, working in the print shop. He also worked for the Springfield Park District for several years. Frank was a loyal and dedicated member of the Sangamon County Rescue Squad (SCRS), serving as its deputy chief for more than 28 years. He also served as a diver and canine handler for the SCRS, devoting his time, energy and talents to those endeavors.

Following in his father's footsteps, Frank was "Santa's helper" for many years, and he enjoyed making others happy during the holiday season. He also was a former assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 202 at Little Flower.

Frank is survived by his sister, Rebecca "Becky" Kelley, of Springfield; two nephews, Richard L. Kelley and Thomas M. (wife, LeAnn) Kelley, both of Springfield; three great-nieces; and his in-laws, Joe and Kay Hickey, of Cornland.

Frank's family will meet friends from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral liturgy service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022, at the Church of the Little Flower at 800 Stevenson Drive in Springfield, with Deacon Carl Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Steenbergen Cemetery in Mount Pulaski.

Memorial contributions may be made to Frank's family or to the Sangamon County Rescue Squad, 2801 N. Fifth St., Springfield, IL 62702.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Frank England. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.