October Resident of the Month: Frank Hughes

Are you looking for Frank Hughes?

You may have to wait. He is likely outside taking a spin on his electric bicycle. Not a remarkable feat, unless you realize that Frank is 91 years old.

Bicycle riding has been a passion for Frank for many years. It goes back to the days he and his wife rode together “all over the place”, enjoying a simple and fulfilling life “on the trail”, wherever the trail may be.

Among other things, riding kept Frank in good shape. He is still remarkably fit for a man his age.

Frank has been a Poplar Terrace resident for the past 18 years, since 2005. He is quiet and unassuming in general and does not interact frequently with the other residents, but at the same time, he is always pleasant and easy to talk to. He enjoys where he lives, likes his fellow residents, and appreciates the help he has available from the Community Homes staff. “I am very happy here”, he notes without hesitation.

Back in the day, Frank called Falls Creek, Pa his home. Falls Creek is a Borough in Western Pennsylvania. It is a small rural community. Frank’s 1951 graduating class at Falls Creek High School had an enrollment of 10 boys and 7 girls. He grew up in a family of stepbrothers and sisters. He is now the only survivor.

His work history includes employment in the auto parts industry and two factories in Ridgeway, Pennsylvania. His experience included work as a shipping clerk and he also tried his hand at cooking in a restaurant.

Frank also has a background in the military, with service in Korea in the 1950’s. He spent much of his military time in the kitchen as a chef. He shares that he enjoyed his time cooking, as he did in civilian life.

Frank is still married to his wife of many years, Connie. They had a shared interest in bicycle riding and spent considerable time exploring many trails. Frank and Connie also enjoyed camping in state parks in Pennsylvania and New York State.   Due to health problems, they no longer live together. Connie is under care at a local nursing home.

Frank drove an automobile for many years but switched to becoming a full-time bicycle rider following an auto accident. He has no desire to give up the bicycle as his vehicle of choice.

Go Frank go. The light Is always green!