Frank Russell Wilgus passed away Sunday, March 31st at the age of 75 at the Villages Regional Hospital. Preceded in death by his father Herbert Wilgus, mother Rosetta Wilgus and sister Alice Green. He was the loving husband of Carol Sue Wilgus for 55 years, father of Frank Anthony Wilgus, Terri Lynn Wilgus, loving grandfather to: Duston Seibert, Sarah Wilgus, Wyatt Seibert, Alexandria Rose May and his special and loving pet Soozie. Also, many nieces and nephews.

He lived in The Villages, FL for over 14 years and was born in Columbus, OH.

Frank grew up in Columbus, OH and received his Industrial Design degree in 1964 from the Columbus College of Art and Design. He then joined Richardson/Smith, a small independent design firm. His passion for art, design and especially the people led him to a successful 38 plus year career with the firm that evolved into Fitch, Inc., a world leader in the business. Frank's talents for taking an idea right into 3D modeling was one of a kind. He established a "shop"  that evolved into one of the best model labs in the country and was an integral part and process of Fitch, Inc. Furthering his career, he became his own design identity, establishing many clients, design awards and patents. He became a figure head for a company, Duskin, in Osaka Japan. His popularity in Japan gave rise to celebrity status, being in ads, on billboards and TV commercials. He was often asked for his autograph and to pose for pictures in the country. After retiring, he still enjoyed relationships in the business and was asked to consult.

Frank's family life was always active and just as passionate. Marrying his high school sweet heart, they were together 55 years. He was an excellent provider and unconditionally loved and supported his children and grandchildren. The families activities never ended and were always evolving. The Wilgus family was well known for the collection of dirtbike, dune buggies and baja bugs and a 1970 R/S Z28 whos sound could be recognized from blocks away. Frank's personality and ability to make others laugh was undeniable. He was a people person and was loved by all who met him. In his later year, he became a doppelganger for Santa Claus. He loved posing for pictures as jolly St. Nick even if it was interrupting dinner.  In 2005, Frank and Carol Sue moved to The Villages, Florida. He loved the Florida weather and it was always a topic to his family back in OH. He would say "It's 60 degrees here, we're having a cold spell", as the snow fell and it was in the 20's back in Columbus. Frank enjoyed his days relaxing, spending time with his wife Carol Sue, his dog Soozie, golfing, riding his Harley and Taco Tuesdays with his good friends. He lived a large and bountiful life into his last day.

A memorial for him will be in Columbus, OH announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sumter County Animal Shelter, or any shelter of your choice.