07/12/2021
We are sad to share with you the news that Frank Ponnet, who has been a long-time support to youth ministry in our Archdiocese, passed away last week. Many of you know Frank’s wife Dawn from her time facilitating the Confirmation Catechist Specialization, serving on the CLI Directors Team, or assisting with Youth Day and Congress. What you might not know is that for many years Frank, too, has served the youth ministry community, often from “behind the scenes.” Each time we have hosted trainings and events at Holy Family (South Pasadena), Frank was there to help open facilities, assist us with setting up the spaces we were using, prepare hospitality, and serve meals. Over the years, he also served the Archdiocese by assisting with Youth Day and Congress, among many other things. Frank always brought a warm smile and a joy-filled spirit to everything he did. He will be greatly missed. Please join us in praying for Dawn and the rest of Frank’s family, the community of Holy Family Parish, and for Frank as he rests in the arms of God. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Frank Ponnet. Frank was Holy Family’s Director of Liturgy & Adult Education and his passing will leave a void in us that will be hard to fill.
Frank started his journey with Holy Family in 1984, when he and his family became parishioners. In 1990, he joined our staff as the Director of Christian Initiation (RCIA) and as Co-Director of Youth Ministry (with his wife, Dawn). He was promoted to his current position in 1998 and has been a mainstay ever since. He was the “go-to” resource for the Worship Commission from its beginning and, over the years, Frank became an invaluable teacher of liturgy. He also served many grieving hearts who were consoled by him as he planned funerals and memorial services for their loved ones. It takes a special grace to help those through some of the most challenging times and he embodied that grace and compassion.
As a true example of servant leadership, Frank worked tirelessly for the parish and always did so with a spirit of generosity and charity in honor of serving God. He was a kind and gentle soul of deep faith and his great gift of words always formed meaningful prayers for any event. He was truly an anchor and we are grateful for his commitment over the years.
We will miss Frank deeply. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dawn and her family.
