Frank Medel, Jr.

Frank ‘Sonny’ Medel Jr. of Birch Run, Michigan

Beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend passed away with his family by his side on Monday, February 6, 2023, at Covenant HealthCare-Cooper. He was 55 years old. Frank Medel Jr. was born on July 12, 1967, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Frank and Juanita (Guevara) Medel. He was a 1985 graduate of Nouvel Catholic Central High School. Growing up, he was heavily influenced by his father’s musical talent, and his love for the rock band KISS. Following graduation, he co-created Total Control of the Turntables (T.C.T) and became known as DJ ‘Dr. Love.’ He proudly attended Delta College where he studied Business Administration. Frank honorably served his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps as an 0311 Rifleman, and served abroad in Okinawa, the Philippines, and during Operation Desert Storm in Kuwait. Upon his return, he became a renowned and successful entrepreneur owning and operating his own entertainment business. Eventually, Frank created Medel Enterprises, bringing other entertainers into his realm of promotion, entertainment, and event planning. Years later, he successfully branched into radio and co-founded Midwest Tejano Radio in 2010. Frank had also been employed at the Aleda E. Lutz V.A. Medical Center as a Police Services Dispatcher. A true servant of the community, he volunteered countless hours across the Great Lakes Bay Region. He is one of the founders of the Great Lakes Bay Hispanic Leadership Institute, a board member on the Midwest Tejano Cultural Entertainment, and served in key roles on many other boards, councils, and organizations to further the positive impact to the community. He was well-known for his energetic and enthusiastic personality, which made him a beloved figure in the music community. He was always eager to help new artists and promote their music, and he was known for his infectious smile and warm personality. He was recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his many years of volunteerism to the community, veterans, and his influence on the local music entertainment industry. Frank was a longtime and faithful member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Frank left his indelible mark on this world. He made many friends through his work as a DJ and planning events throughout the Saginaw area and the state of Michigan. He will forever be remembered for his sincere kindness; his ability to make everyone know how important they were to him; for selflessly helping anyone in need; for always having a smile on his face; his love to dance, and for fondly referring to everyone as his ‘brother’ and ‘sister’. His legacy will continue through his love and compassion and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories.  

Surviving are his parents, Frank and Juanita Medel of Birch Run; two brothers: Dwayne Medel of Birch Run; Bartolo (Celeste) Medel of FL; a daughter, Celia Cruz of TX and her mother, Betty; two grandchildren: Alexzavier and Sean Cruz of TX; nieces and nephews: Valentino (Paola) Medel of FL; Arianna and Dominic Medel of FL; a great-niece and great-nephew: Natalia and Luca Medel of FL; special Godparents: Arturo (Angela) Guevara of Freeland; Virginia “Nico” Guevara of Saginaw. Also surviving are many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by a son, Santos ‘Nach’ Cruz; and grandparents: Bartolo and Francisca Guevara and Aurelio and Theodora Medel, and many other relatives and loved ones to list.

In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to show an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to a memorial for Frank’s children/grandchildren via cash or check c/o Bartolo Medel, or via the GoFundMe link below: https://gofund.me/5be98a36

A Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 910 N. 6th Ave. Rev. Fr. Francis Voris, OFM Cap will officiate. Military Honors will follow under the auspices of the United States Marine Corps and American Legion Post 22. Honoring Frank’s wishes, cremation will follow the service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the W. L. Case & Company Funeral Chapel, 4480 Mackinaw Road on Monday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A prayer service will be conducted at 5:30 pm, and presentation of the Patriot Guard Riders will follow. Frank will lie in state at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church, or through www.casefuneralhome.com.