Frank A. Barish

BARISH – Frank A., 57, Champlin, Minnesota; formerly of South Fork, died June 23, 2025. Born August 31, 1967, in Johnstown, son of James R. and Frances H. (Mehall) Barish. Preceded in death by parents; and brother, Thomas A. Barish.

Survived by daughters, Melisa Gong (Brandon), Veronica Barish, and Naomi Barish; siblings, James, Dawn Baun (Tim Shuman), and Robert; aunts Cecelia Reighard (Ray) and Darlene Mehall; wife, Sharon Johnson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Frank proudly served in the United States Air Force during Operation Desert Shield / Storm as an aircraft mechanic. During his service, he met his wife, Sharon, and together they had their first two daughters, Melisa and Veronica. Frank left the military to raise his family, but still carried that same discipline, hard-working nature, and skill into his work as a fabricator in the plastic manufacturing industry. Throughout his career, Frank worked diligently, and openly shared his extensive knowledge as he mentored new employees with patience and quiet kindness.

Frank was a caring father and always prioritized his daughters' well being. He was especially attentive with his youngest daughter, Naomi, who is autistic and requires daily care. Frank has been sole caretaker for Naomi since he and Sharon seperated, and has done so with grace and patience, despite also enduring his own difficult battle with kidney disease.

Frank tended to be a simple man of few words, but he would light up if you got him talking about classic cars, hunting, or fishing. Ever the tinkerer, Frank always had some kind of project, from building a muzzleloader from scratch to the multiple project cars he kept around. He taught us to find joy in our passions and in the simple things in life, and, when life hands you a project—whether it’s a car or a challenge—to roll up your sleeves and get to work.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, South Fork; Father Joseph C. Nale, Celebrant. Committal, St. James Cemetery. Military rites by St. Michael American Legion Post 551.