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Monday, June 16, 2025 at 3:11 PM

Frank J. Saile III

Frank J. Saile III

LEELANAU CO – Frank Joseph Saile III, affectionately known as “Skip,” 84, of Leelanau County, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at MediLodge of Grand Traverse County. Born on May 11, 1941, in Detroit to Frank and Lorraine (Weber) Saile II, Skip lived a life brimming with enthusiasm, adventure, and love for those around him.

Skip was a devoted father to his sons, Frank “Kipp” Saile IV and Kristian ( Julie) Saile, always making time to create lasting memories with them. A man full of life, Skip’s passions were as varied as they were vibrant. He loved hauling the kids around to different horse shows for us to compete, road tripping to motorcycle and ski races with his kids, and he himself enjoyed getting out in the woods and deer hunting. His annual trips to hunting camp were a highlight, filled with camaraderie and the great outdoors. A true dog lover, Skip always had a loyal companion by his side. He and his sister, Laurlynn “Cookie” Shugart, shared fond memories of their springer spaniels swimming together at Cookie’s pool, and Skip took great joy in squirrel hunting with his dogs.

As a respected realtor in Leelanau and Grand Traverse Counties, Skip built a career rooted in his love for the region. He lived with his family in Cedar, spending countless days at Sugar Loaf, where he served as president of the Leelanau Ski Club. Skip’s dedication to the ski club 1941 ~ 2025

was unwavering, and he took pride in nurturing the young skiers. Skip was the founder of the ski club and did numerous trips out west with the ski club kids and his sons to experience the rocky mountain west.

Later in life, Skip embraced a new adventure, hauling large RVs across the United States. This job allowed him to explore the country he loved while being accompanied by his faithful dogs, Skip made pit stops at cherished spots, sharing his journey with his canine companions. On his return trips, he made it a point to visit his sons, Kipp and Kristian, wherever they were living, creating treasured moments with them across the miles.

Skip’s infectious zest for life touched everyone he met. He leaves behind his beloved sons, Kipp and Kristian ( Julie) Saile; his cherished grandchildren, Scarlett, Wyatt, and Wilson Saile, and Kruz, Sky, and Estrella Saile; and his siblings, Sharlynn “Sis” Winter, Wayne “Booz” Saile, and Laurlynn “Cookie” Shugart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lorraine Saile II.

Cremation has taken place, and private family services have been held.

Please share condolences and memories with the family at www.martinson.info Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.