Colleagues remember Frank Metz as a distinguished NSW police officer, but his family remembers a wonderful husband and a caring father with a dry wit.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Francis Metz, fondly known as Frank, passed away on February 22 at 92 years of age. He joined the NSW Police Cadets on January 4, 1944, and that kicked off an illustrious career.
His wife, Margaret, said they met at Quandialla when Frank was there relieving the permanent officer.
"I was on a bus trip to the Ballinaclash Orchard when a busload of young people went cherry picking," she said.
"It was raining and we had to go to the pictures, and from there the rest is history. We were married in 1950."
Margaret said he was a wonderful husband, father and policeman and she very proud of him in anything that he did.
Son Robert Metz said the movement around NSW was a real testament to the frequency of his dad's promotions.
"Within his police career and with the moves, he eventually ended up a superintendent, the officer in charge of the Riverina District," he said.
The Metz family moved to Wagga in 1984 for the job and Frank retired in 1986.
"They decided to enjoy their retired life together in Wagga," Robert said.
"Lots of travel for leisure and for the family.
"While Mum and Dad’s family was expanding, he did everything he could to support his children through their journey as parents.
"Nothing was too much for Dad."
His daughters Marianne Flowers and Louise McDermott said their father made everything into an adventure.
"He was always getting us to try new things like apples, sultanas and honey sandwiches," Marianne said.
"When Mum was working in the school holidays, Dad used to take us off on day trip adventures," Louise said.
Marianne said Frank taught all the children to stand up for what was right and to be fair and respectful, and he had a dry sense of humour.
"He used to say 'How can I soar like an eagle when I am surrounded by turkeys'," she said.
Margaret said he dedicated his time and efforts to the Rotary, the Albion Park Bush Fire Brigade, the Retired Police Association of NSW and the Association of Independent Retirees.
"I would also like to thank the police for their contribution to the funeral," she said. "When they stopped the traffic, I knew he would have loved that. Also, thank you to the staff at the Forrest Centre for caring for him."
While you’re with us, did you know that you can now receive updates straight to you inbox each day at 6am from the Daily Advertiser? To make sure you’re up to date with all the Wagga news sign up here.