Daniel Franklin “Frank” Reiter II, age 42 of Joplin, MO passed away on Tuesday January 24, 2017 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin. Frank was born on January 9, 1975 in Sedalia, MO the son of Daniel Franklin and Erma Jo (Davis) Reiter.

Frank married Carey Peiffer on May 27, 2006. He is survived by wife Carey and two sons: Daniel Franklin Reiter III (age 9) and Ezra Wendel Reiter (age 4), and three sisters: Rhonda Swanson (Scott) of Chico, CA, Roxanna Linsenbardt (John) of Fenton, MO, and Danna Belsha (George) of Sedalia, MO, and a number of nieces and nephews. Also survived by in-laws: Kim and Diane Peiffer of Davenport, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Frank worked in Sedalia in the food industry, where he developed his passion for cooking. After completing his biology degree from University of Central Missouri, he moved to Joplin and worked in Research & Development at Eagle Picher for many years.

He loved food, cigars & good beer, and he loved political banter. He loved the Raiders, and especially enjoyed supporting his college team, the Mules. He loved science and nature, and enjoyed inspiring others, starting with his nephews long before he had children of his own. He demonstrated that it was cool to be smart and to be passionate about the things that you love. Nature walks, hiking, geocaching, even Pokemon hunting were some of his favorite activities with his family. Family traditions he was building with his sons included games nights, pizza and movie nights, and training his young sous chefs.

Frank was a staunch advocate of local foods. Local television appearances included cooking demonstrations and promoting the local food scene, especially the Webb City farmer’s market. He was also known for his food blog ‘Frank About Food’.

He was happiest doing for others; very few people go through life generating enduring friendships among so many walks of life as he did. He will be remembered for his zest for life and great sense of humor.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00pm Sunday, January 29, 2017 at the Mason-Woodard Chapel. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation prior to the service starting at 1:30pm at the funeral home.

Memorials to the family may be made through the ‘Team Reiter Strong’ GoFundMe account.

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