Frank C. Ream, Jr.

Ream

Frank C. Ream, Jr., 59 of Berlin and New York City, died October 9, 2013 at Somerset Hospital. Born November 27, 1953 in Meyersdale, son of the late Frank C. Sr. and Ruth (Johnson) Ream.

Survived by partner: Shane Taylor;

sister: Ann married to William Slifco, Berlin, and

nephew: William Jr.

            Frank was a gifted singer and musician and his career as an operatic tenor spanned five decades and took him around the world. His career began locally when he performed operettas with the Somerset Summer Theater and with the Johnstown, McKeesport, and Westmoreland Symphonies and the Casselman Valley Choral Society and various churches.  Then he began professionally with the Pittsburgh Opera, the Cincinnati Opera, and the Pittsburgh Chamber Opera. He won the Metropolitan Opera district auditions in 1979. In 1982 Frank relocated to New York City.  There he performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Opera, and numerous other groups.  He sang with the New York Choral Artists, whose recording of “On The Transmigration Of Souls” won three Grammy Awards in 2005.  He has performed professionally for many opera houses, companies, and festivals across Europe and the United Kingdom, throughout the United States and in places as varied as Egypt, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

            We wish to extend our sincerest thanks to many family and friends who have done so much for Frank over the years and particularly over the past six months.  The following people have been especially treasured: Chris and Bob, Nancy, Mike, Louis, Barb, Nathan, and Bill K.  We have been overwhelmed by the outpourings of generosity which included cards, phone calls, prayer shawls and deliveries of treats.  These have come not only from the local area but from across the country and around the world.  We are so thankful for those who spent time with Frank and took him on long relaxing drives around the mountains.  We enormously appreciate the care and compassion demonstrated by the nurses and staff at Somerset Hospital, especially in 3B, the nurses and staff of Somerset Oncology, Pittsburgh Allegheny General Hospital and the various EMT teams of the region.  You have all added greatly to Frank’s sense of adventure in what has been a difficult time.

            A memorial service will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Church of Christ, Berlin. Rev. Frank Demmy officiating. Interment Berlin I.O.O.F. Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Trinity United Church of Christ Music Fund, PO Box 86, Berlin, PA 15530 or to the charity of your choice. DeanerFuneralsAndCremations.com

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