Frank R. Cheli

Frank Richard Cheli, 84, of Indianapolis, passed away July 11th, 2024. He was born June 9th, 1940 in Oakland, California to parents Fred and Ann Cheli.

As a young child he and his family moved to San Leandro, CA. There he lived with his parents and 2 brothers, Ron and Bob Cheli. He went on to graduate high school, college, San Jose State and later an MBA from Columbia University.

He joined the Air Force and later was stationed in Germany, where he met Nita Louise Frey, who later became his wife. Nita was born and raised in Sioux City, IA and took a trip around the world, little did she know she was going to meet the love of her life in Germany!

He was a very hard worker; Frank held several jobs throughout his life. He was in marketing for RJR Reynolds Tobacco, and they were living in Winston-Salem, NC, where he and Nita adopted their daughter, Jennifer Lila Ann Cheli as a baby. It was a blessing for all!

Many years later he was the Vice President of Marketing for Latin America for Nabisco for many years before he retired.

Frank married the love of his life Nita (Frey) Cheli in October 28th 1967, Nita precedes Frank in death by five months, to the day February 11, 2024.

Frank was a strong, loving gentleman. He and Nita loved to travel, seeing countless destinations including Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe, as well has most of the United States. He was a valued member of the Fifth Church of Christ Scientist. He enjoyed life to the fullest!

Frank is survived by his only child, daughter Jennifer Lila Ann (Cheli) Graves, (husband Todd), two grandchildren Gretchen and Carter, all of Avon, Indiana; and his brother Ron Cheli and his wife Jean Cheli, of Nevada City, CA.

It is a comfort knowing he is with the love of his life Nita, they will be missed!

Jennifer has asked that NO flowers be sent, if you would like to contact her, the mailing address is:

307 Avon Parkway

Avon, IN 46123

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. This site will be updated with service times, as they come available.