Frank J. 'Buck' Bouten

Franklin Joseph Bouten, age 90, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, Frank lived a life defined by deep faith, quiet strength, strong character, and a spirit of servant leadership.

Born on October 17, 1935, in Spokane, Washington, Frank was the third child of Gus and Veronica (Halko) Bouten. After graduating from Gonzaga High School, he attended Santa Clara University before completing his degree at Gonzaga University, where he played baseball. His love for the game began as a batboy for the Spokane Indians from 1947 to 1949, earning the nickname "Bucky Bouten."

During college, Frank enrolled in ROTC and went on to serve honorably in the U.S. Army. In 1958, he married Sharon Louise O'Connell, and together they shared a 68-year marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion.

Frank grew up working weekends and summers at Bouten Construction Company, a local general contractor founded by his father in 1944. In 1960, he joined the company full time, serving in various roles, including president from 1971 until his retirement in 1996, when his son Bill succeeded him. Among the many projects he contributed to were Sacred Heart Medical Center, Ronald McDonald House, Holy Family Hospital, and numerous hospital and other projects throughout the region. Frank's steadfast commitment to service, quality, excellence, and fairness continues to guide the company today.

A man of simple pleasures, Frank enjoyed reading the daily comics, telling a good joke, playing golf and tennis, spending family time at Priest Lake, following the Zags, and cherishing lifelong friendships. He was known for his generosity, humility, competitiveness, and love for others. There was never a stranger to Frank, and his warmth touched everyone he met.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon; children Joe, Jeanne, Bill, and Tim (Monica); grandchildren Trevor (Marshelle) and Claire; and great-grandchildren Piper, Vivian, and Parker, who affectionately called him "Papa." Frank's children and grandchildren loved and respected him greatly, cherishing his guidance, wisdom, and support throughout their lives. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters.

A Rosary service will be held on February 24, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on February 25, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., both at St. Thomas More Church, 515 W. St. Thomas More Way. A luncheon reception will follow in the Parish Activity Center, and a private interment will occur at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Frank and Sharon Bouten Academic Scholarship at Gonzaga University, the Ronald McDonald House, the Frank J. Bouten Gonzaga Prep Scholarship, or a charity of one's choice.

May Frank now rest in Christ's eternal peace and may His light shine upon him forever.