Frank Lafata was born on April 30, 1958, arriving prematurely at just 3 pounds. Raised in Rockford, Michigan, he grew up in a hardworking, blue-collar family; his parents, Dorothy and Russell, were union workers, and the March of Dimes helped cover the costly medical care that saved his life.

 

A mechanically inclined child, Frank’s early years were shaped by resilience. When a wood-stove fire destroyed his family’s home, the generosity they received deepened his lifelong desire to help others. He spent his childhood building things, mowing lawns, and working in his father’s pallet business—earning a penny for every nail he pulled.

 

Frank’s leadership instincts surfaced early. He ran for student council in seventh grade, played football and ran track, and was active in the Boy Scouts.

 

He later lived in Grand Rapids through his 30s and has been married to his wife, Mary Lee, for 35 years. Together they have two children. Today, Frank serves as a state representative, a role that reflects the values instilled in him from childhood: hard work, service, and a genuine commitment to helping people.