Daniel Allen Frensley, concerned that failing health was about
to make him a burden to family and friends, concluded his life had
run its course, and decided to end it.
Daniel Allen Frensley, concerned that failing health was about to make him a burden to family and friends, concluded his life had run its course, and decided to end it. This he did under the majestic ancient redwood trees, at Magic Springs (near Gilroy).
Former San Francisco supervisor Carol Ruth Silver noted that his death occurred during the 25th anniversary month of the Jonestown Suicides and the murders of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk. Mr. Frensley had been her intimate companion at the time of those historical horrors, and was active, both as a reporter and as one of her family’s prime supports during that time.
A journalist, Mr. Frensley, 55, was proud of having been the youngest reporter for Reuters in Europe during his youth, which was spent in Spain. He was sent there by his family, after being orphaned, to live with his oldest sister, and spoke of many adventures while attending the International School there. He was proud also of his excellent command of Spanish.
Mr. Frensley returned to Texas and studied at the University of Texas at Austin. Later he managed a string of California labor newspapers for his mentor, the late Lewis Clifton.
A Renaissance man of many interests, his life work was the study of weather changes from ozone depletion, including global warming, long before it had become a popular cause. He founded the Frensley Research Institute, to pursue these interests. In later years, he fell on hard times, and his decision to end his life was impelled according to his eloquent last note, by the fact that he was in failing health, in substantial pain, and in poverty, from which circumstances he saw no other exit.
Born April 5, 1948, in Austin, Texas, Mr. Frensley was divorced from Nancy Frensley, and is survived by sons, Clifton Frensley, Jefferson Chou Frensley Silver, step-son, Steven Chou Silver, and Steven’s children with Marian Lau, Destin and Reeves Silver. He is also survived by siblings, Dorothy Allen, Sarah Alberts, Thomas Frensley, David Frensley, and Mary Morales, and by numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.
Contributions in his honor may be made to the charity of donor’s choice.
A memorial service will be held under the redwoods at 234 Magic Springs, off Route 152, above Gilroy, on Sunday at noon. For directions call (800) 815-8103. In case of inclement weather, the service may be held at an indoor site.
