Frank Edward Voler, 83, passed away in San Tan Valley, Arizona on March 1, 2015 with his family by his bedside.

He was born in Sheridan, Wyoming on April 10, 1931 of Slovenian-American parents.

Frank is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Shirley, his half-brother Joseph Schmautz of Florida, step-daughter Cheryl Mori (Tony) of Burlingame, CA, their son Blake and daughter Karina; step-son Dave Darby (Susy) of San Tan Valley, AZ, and their children Alex and Mia, sister-in-laws Joanne Budnick and Janet Harkey, nephew Scott Schmautz (Barbara), two nieces Stephanie Mahon and Judy Woolston (Dean) and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Stefania Voler, half-brother Jack Schmautz and his son Donald Voler.

Frank graduated from Sheridan High School in 1948, and attended the University of Wyoming where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was immediately employed by Exxon (Creole) Petroleum Corp. operating in Venezuela. He arrived in Venezuela in the summer of 1952 to begin his career in Creole's Eastern Division. His career spanned 31 years and encompassed many experiences from the western Lake Maracaibo region to Creole's main office in Caracas. There he worked as a Reservoir Engineer in the Production Department. Frank took advantage of the beautiful golf courses in the Caracas area and became an accomplished golfer. In 1983 Frank retired and they moved back to Sheridan, WY. He continued his golf, and renewed his love of trout fishing in the nearby Big Horn Mountains.

Within the Creole Annuitants Association (U.S.), Frank was very involved in bringing Venezuelan guests to the yearly Reunions, most of whom could not have afforded to attend.

He devoted much of his retired life to helping friends and family.

Frank and Shirley moved to AZ in 2011 to be near family as a result of Frank's Alzheimer's disease.

Frank touched many lives with his gentle spirit and was a loving Opa to his four grandchildren, ages 4 to 19. His sense of humor will be especially missed by all.

A memorial service and burial is planned at a later date in San Tan Valley, Arizona.

Donations may be made in Frank's name to Alzheimer's Association , Sheridan Wesleyan Church, or the donor's choice.

The Sheridan Press - Mar. 13, 2015.