Frank Dimercurio

Frank Michael Dimercurio (70), of Harrisville, joined his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, October 29, 2023.  

He was born April 8, 1953, to Alfonzo and Rosalia (Licavoli) Dimercurio, in Detroit. He graduated from Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores in 1965.

The passing of his father had a significant impact on Frank when he was 19. He took on the responsibility of supporting his family, graduating with a business degree from the University of Detroit. 

In 1974 Frank married Julie Van Tiem in Detroit. They were married for seven years until her passing from cystic fibrosis. Her battle to survive this genetic disorder, which causes problems with breathing and digestion, inspired Frank. He worked tirelessly for many years in the Detroit area to raise funds and awareness for the disease.

Frank cared about everyone and was a true friend. He was tenacious, kind, stubborn, and gracious. He took every opportunity to share the Gospel. "One more for Jesus," was his battle cry. It was the driving force in his life, and he maintained that until the moment he drew his last breath.  

On May 1, 1993, he married Virginia Gillette in St. Clair Shores. Together, they established and ran a successful business for nearly three decades, until a call from God changed the trajectory of their lives. They sold the business and moved to Harrisville.

With the support of like-minded individuals, they founded The Chosen Ranch in 2015. The Chosen Ranch serves as a haven and home for children in need of a second chance. Over the years, this ministry has grown and has touched hundreds of individuals, offering them hope and a fresh start.

Frank was an amazing cook and used his ability in the kitchen to share his faith with any and all who shared a meal with him. He loved a full table and always had extra in case someone stopped in for a visit. 

He was gregarious, passionate, and understanding. He loved people - especially young people -  and they were drawn to him as well. Over the years he has been an uncle, Pappa, Godfather,
mentor, and warrior for hundreds of young people. With his kindness and love of the Lord, Frank has helped countless individuals find salvation.

Frank was an outdoorsman and loved walleye fishing on Lake Huron, as well as deer hunting.

In 2021, Frank’s book, “Hit Man for Christ,” was published. It is the story of his faith and growing up in Detroit.

Frank is survived by two sisters, Mary Jo Wilke and Julee Ann Mercurio, two step-daughters, Karen (Matthew) Brumm and Kristin, nieces, Julee Ann (Jody) Davis and Catherine (Roy) Jones, “adopted” kids & grandkids, Josh and Sara Whitten, Noah, Madelyne, Colton, Ben (Madison), and Damion, as well as many nephews, grand-nephews and nieces, and grandchildren, and his beloved golden retrievers. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia, father, Alfonzo, mother, Rosalia, first-wife, Julie, niece, Lia, and brother-in-law, Harold.

Two services will be held in honor of Frank: 

Gillies Funeral Home in Lincoln, MI:

• Visitation: Friday, November 1, 2023 from 2-5 p.m.

• Funeral: Friday, November 1, 2023 at 5 p.m.

Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home in St. Clair Shores, MI:

• Visitation: Sunday, November 5 from 2-9 p.m.

• Funeral: Monday, November 6 at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Frank can be made to the Chosen Ranch, P.O. Box 190, Lincoln, MI 48742.