Frank Richard Schiretz

Frank Richard Schiretz, 82 of Burlington, NC passed away after a long illness on February 5, 2024 at Alamance Regional Medical Center, with his wife, daughter and sister by his side.

Frank was born on March 31, 1941 to the late Roza and Dervice Husenovic in Slovenia. Roza, Dervice and their three small children immigrated to the United States in 1951 sponsored by the First Christian United Church of Christ of Burlington, NC. Frank graduated from the NC School for the Deaf in Morganton, NC, this is where he met his wife, Yvette Smith Schiretz. Frank was the kicker for the NCSD football team. His long standing joke was that when he kicked the punt return, the teams could go have lunch, return and then catch his ball. Upon graduation, Frank and Yvette moved to Burlington to begin their life together. They had 2 children, Sari Schiretz Green and the late Frank Richard Schiretz, Jr. (Rich). Frank spent 28 years with the Burlington Times News, after retirement he became the family woodworker. We all proudly have many pieces of antiques he found and refinished or have pieces he handmade. Frank was a devoted fan of the UNC Tarheels, particularly Basketball. Go Heels!

Frank and Yvette have been faithful members of Mebane Street Church of Christ for almost 50 years. Frank also attended Friendly Avenue Church of Christ in Greensboro, NC where he served as Deacon.

Frank was an active member of the Burlington chapter of the NC Association of the Deaf and held numerous positions with the National Fraternal Society for the Deaf. The NC Deaf community is mighty and an important part of life for deafies, the companionship provided to each other is strong and Frank valued his friendships immensely. 

Frank is survived by his wife, Yvette Smith Schiretz, daughter, Sari Schiretz Green, grandson, Taylor Frank-William Green. A sister, Chris Braun and her husband, Neil Braun.  And 3 beloved kitties, Boss Lady, Lucy and Prince George. Frank was preceded in death by his parents Roza and Dervice Husenovic, son Rich Schiretz and sister Vera Reeder.

The family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses that cared for Frank, particularly in his final weeks. May God bless each one of you. In lieu of flowers, we know Frank would want donations made to Mebane Street Church of Christ 1610 N Mebane Street, Alamance County Meals on Wheels 411 W 5th Street #A or Burlington Animal Services 221 Stone Quarry Road, all in Burlington, NC.

Funeral arrangements are pending.