Frank Bakel

Bank: Union of London & Smiths Bank

Place of work: Barnsley branch

Died: 20 May 1917

Frank Bakel was born in Barnsley on 18 November 1891, the son of Walter Bakel, a fruit dealer, and his wife Clara. He was educated at Barnsley Grammar School.

In May 1908 Bakel went to work for Union of London & Smiths Bank at its Barnsley branch. He passed his Institute of Bankers examinations in 1910 (preliminary) and 1912 (final). During the First World War Bakel left the bank to join the army, serving in the York and Lancaster Regiment. In February 1917 he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant.

Second Lieutenant Frank Bakel was killed in action in France on 20 May 1917. He was 25 years old, and left a widow, Constance, whom he had married the previous month.

Frank Bakel is commemorated on a bank war memorial at NatWest City of London office.