Francis Richard Benaderet, Sr.
Feb. 13, 1938-March 3, 2015
San Rafael, California

Frank, lovingly known as "Chief" and "Gunka," passed peacefully on March 3, 2015, in his San Rafael home of 39 years. He was 77.

Born to immigrant parents, Robert Benaderet Sr. and Helen Eisenburg, on Feb. 13, 1938, in San Francisco, California. He was the youngest of five siblings.

Frank married Helen Campbell, his high school sweetheart and soulmate, on Sept. 28, 1955.

Tenacious and industrious, Frank juggled multiple positions at Frito Lay, Kaiser Permanente, and a San Francisco-based milk distributor, all while attending college and raising three spirited sons.

He discovered his passion and life's work in public service. He joined the Palo Alto Police Department in 1963, ardently rising to the rank of sergeant. His career path led him to Stanford Police Department where he served as a police captain, before becoming the chief of police in Pinole, California, and ultimately chief of police in San Rafael, California.

He pioneered an innovative approach to leadership in the rank and file, proposed cutting-edge engagement techniques during the anti-war protests, while championing all causes with strength and fairness. He embodied justice for all. As one of the youngest police chiefs in California, he was masterful at garnering consensus on significant initiatives and personified the art of collaboration in engaging city agencies outside of his own administration.

Frank received a B.A. in public administration from San Jose State University and a master's degree in public administration from USC.

He taught criminal justice courses at Golden Gate University and contributed to an authoritative handbook, "Criminal justice group training: a facilitator's handbook," authored by Michael E. O?Neill and Kai Martensen.

His distinguished career culminated in 18 years of service, publishing numerous articles and serving as a member of the Police Chiefs Association.

True to his pledge of public service, Frank was a San Rafael Rotarian, a past president and an advocate for youth. During his tenure, his fundraising efforts for college scholarships were unfaltering and a testament to his covenant. Following retirement, he found fellowship in SIR, an organization for vibrant retirees.

Throughout his life, his commitment to his family never wavered. Nary did he miss his son's baseball or basketball games. For decades, he volunteered as a Little League and Babe Ruth coach and manager. He continued to coach and mentor into his 70s. With a passion for flying, Frank held a private pilot's license.

Frank is survived by his wife of 59 years, Helen Benaderet; eldest son, William Benaderet, second son, Francis Benaderet Jr. and youngest son, Rick Benaderet; his revering daughters-in-law, Rebecca and Jane Benaderet; and his adoring grandchildren ?- Jennifer, Debra, Francis III, Nicola and Carissa.

A true gentleman, family man and scholar...

Tags: public service