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Frank Shankwitz
Frank Shankwitz
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Frank Shankwitz Obituary
We invite you to share condolences for Frank Shankwitz in our Guest Book.
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76 Entries
Nadia Zinyk
June 16, 2025
I just saw the movie about Frank's life. I brought Children's Wish to Windsor in 1985. I wanted you to know that because of Frank - a 10 yr old boy got his wish to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger - at the time of the wish, Arnold was filming Total Recall in Mexico - and untouchable! but when he was filming Kindergarten Kop , Arnold arranged to meet with Scott in Hollywood, California. ( I had to go through some fighting to make it happen - but it did!!) I called Air Canada and asked if there was anything they could do to for Scott- he sat between the Pilot and Co-Pilot to Toronto. From there they went to Hollywood. Arnold stopped filming at 11 a.m. and took Scott and his Mom to his Trailer. Scott was able to show Arnold how he drew - and on the bottom on the picture " I'll be back!!" We all waited for Scott when he returned to Windsor and we will never see a happier face than that of Scott - having his wish come true!! Thank you Frank for helping make this wish come true!! God Bless You - You are Truly an Angel! ( another Wish that stands out in my mind is that of a little girl who had 2 wishes- she wanted to meet Snow White - and she wanted to turn 5 ( years old). She met Snow White in Disney, Florida and God Granted her 2nd wish- she passed away 2 weeks after turning 5.
Sibylle Fackler
January 16, 2025
Ich habe mir sein Film angesehen und viel Respekt vor Frank. Danke Frank.
Kay Wiskirchen
December 16, 2024
He always treated me with respect while working for ADOT.
David
August 23, 2024
A great policeman, and man.
How you can show support
Lori Abney Gorham
August 3, 2024
What an amazing legacy and a pretty amazing human being. He is missed here I am sure of that but what a welcoming he must have had❤
Diana Posey
June 6, 2024
A great man with a good heart who i am sure is watching over his family and other sick kids from heaven, together with all the Make a Wish kids who passed before and he made them smile on earth, even if for a bit. God bless you. If only everybody was like you, the world would be a better place
Tina martin
May 20, 2024
Just watched wish man what you did was amazing inspiring &down right awesome it is a legacy that will be forever we all thank you
Delois
May 13, 2024
WE just watched the movie Wish Man. The story is an amazing example of how even small acts of kindness can change many lives. The restaurant owner's act of kindness impacted Frank's life and started a ripple effect that is still going today. Frank was an amazing man. May his story be an inspiration to us all. And may his example of forgiveness and healing be an example for us to follow.
Renee Martin
April 9, 2024
This man's life and his existence will live on in the wishes made by those who need just one wish to come true! Thank you for being the true meaning of the good in the world! I trust that there is more of you in it.
May GOD Bless you and keep you! My heart and prayers go out to your family.
Carson Loveless
March 15, 2024
Condolences to his family and his loved ones
Lauren Kiley
March 10, 2024
I'm a wish kid. I saw Wish Man for the first time tonight and learned about Frank. Your an amazing man with an amazing soul. Thanknyou for all you've done for us. God Bkess your family.
Cecilia Tafoya
September 20, 2023
Frank E. Shankwitz, saw the movie Wish Man and truly admired everything about your life. You, Kitty and Chris Greicius will remain forever in my Prayers to God, in Jesus's name.
Madonna Reagan Thomas
June 30, 2022
WHAT AN AMAZING MAN!! THANK YOU FOR MAKE A WISH.
Kathleen Albright
September 10, 2021
I honor and cherish this man and foundation. We have disco the movie Wishman. It brings tears to my eyes every time. In Vegas 2 yes ago I saw the star on the sidewalk if Frank. I was so excited happy full of joy. I took my picture I was so proud of what was done . God Bless to this Amazing memory .
Jenny Powell
May 28, 2021
The story of your life Mr. Shankwitz is inspiring to me. God had a plan for your life and you fulfilled it. May God's peace surround your family and loved ones. Rest in God's glory!
May 24, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person.
Marianela Furgerson
May 20, 2021
I watched the story of his life and was very impressed by how he found the good in helping the children through his make a wish foundation. for
Susan Petersen Williams
May 3, 2021
It's still hard to believe you're gone, "Fwankie!" We will always remember and cherish our memories from the many trips we took with you and Kitty...from Alaskan Cruises and our vow renewals, Little Bighorn, National Finals Rodeos, 150 mile snowmobile trips through Yellowstone...and the list goes on. I promised you I would take care of Kitty and I am...but I know your spirit surrounds her still. I can feel it. Your passing left a void in this world and your contribution to the goodness in this world will live on in perpetuity. You've earned your angel wings on Earth. Godspeed!
Tom Bockman
March 18, 2021
Frank Shankwitz came to my woodworking class at Prescott High School, where he graduated in the 1961 and asked me to help him make a wishing well for displays at fundraisers. How surprised I was when he later showed up with an NBC affiliate (https://youtu.be/A0W-DEDYTMQ)to get us on the evening news. That is when I found out who he was. Before that moment I just thought we were helping the local "Make a Wish". Imagine how touch I was when he gave me a hand written letter from one of the kids, in a laser engraved frame. I relate the 2004 story here... http://woodworkingteachers.com/default.aspx?g=posts&m=9897. I have never forgotten the experience and relay it often to others. A very wonderful man!
March 13, 2021
Godspeed Hero
March 5, 2021
When I lived at Grand Canyon, and worked for Make A Wish, I was so grateful to you two to come to a Rotary Club Meeting, and address the membership. So many businesses at Grand Canyon and Tusayan had helped Wish families by donating what was needed to grant a child’s wish, that it was so important for them to be at that meeting where Frank was the speaker. i was working for Make A Wish then and had the great privilege of meeting you both. It meant so much for us all. I’m so sorry about your loss.
With love, Beth Seely
Rick Frayne
March 2, 2021
May God's comfort be yours Kitty and family and may his arms hold Frank eternally. His legacy of inspiration, integrity, perseverance and a living miracle in the pursuit of helping others is one that is most unique.
GEORGE COLE
February 28, 2021
god bless you i am sure he met you at the gate to welcome you home
Shannon Jester
February 21, 2021
Such an amazing beautiful soul. Heaven definitely gained an angel with him. I hope every child that was granted their wish met him at the gates and hugged him.
David Cool
February 8, 2021
Frank was one of my Hero's. He inspired my children to work with Make-A-Wish and to be selfless, as he was. God bless you Kitty. God's speed, Frank.
Bob Wolfe
February 7, 2021
Rest Easy Cowboy, God Speed and Fair Winds on that Direct Ride to Heaven. May all the children you helped meet you with open arms.
Dean Nyhart
February 3, 2021
From Dean Nyhart #2597, Major (ret.),
What a great guy...we always got along so well. Frank was a fair and tough Highway Patrol Officer, an honest and sincere person, with a heart of gold and kindness for kids. What a legacy to leave behind. Kitty and family will be sad but can be so very proud of him; he made a difference in all he came into contact with. Tears in Heaven tonight but with great rejoicing. God bless the Shankwitz family this season.
Connie navone
February 3, 2021
God bless Frank. I just watched the movie Wish Man. What an awesome man , the make a wish foundation is a great wish for any child going thru a terrible illness. Bless you his family and may god comfort you. I also live in Arizona.
Jerri Ware
February 1, 2021
My heart breaks, I had the pleasure of meeting you and reading your book, your legacy will live forever. Thank You
Heidi Soba
January 31, 2021
My condolences to the family and friends of this wonderful man, I did not know Frank personally but because of his kind heart and spirit we were able to spend a memorable trip with our daughter before she passed away. We could never Thank Frank enough for what he has given to not only my family but all the the Make A Wish families ♥
January 31, 2021
So sorry to hear about Frank I just saw the movie Wish Man last night and I was so moved by the story
Elizabeth Gibler
January 31, 2021
To the family of Frank Shankowitz my sincere condolences on his passing. I just finished watching the inspiring story of his life! It takes a good man who turns a difficult life into compassion for others! Bravo! Well done!
January 30, 2021
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family . May the true God comfort your broken hearts. For Psalms 50:15 says call and He will deliver in the day of distress.
Gary Sax
January 30, 2021
In the short time we had known each other, we became close. Frank was instrumental in my meeting my wife, for which I will be forever grateful, and honored us by attending the wedding. He also was supportive and a part of my project, "Old Nevada" for which I will be dedicating to him and honoring him in it's coming to fruition.
My deepest condolences go out to his wife, Kitty, as well as his adoring friends, an adoration well deserved. Frank, you will be missed. It was an honor and privilege to have had you a part of my life.
January 29, 2021
Frank played a major role in my husband, Gary, and I meeting each other last year. He thoughtfully and generously took time out of his busy life on 10/31/2020 to attend our wedding at Acker Park in Prescott, and he also made it to our reception at The Palace on Whiskey Row. I told Frank, "See? Even when you aren't trying to make wishes come true, you still do!" Frank was one in a million, and I will always be grateful to have had his influence in my life, even though it was only for 5 months. God bless him for the incredibly great deeds he did for terminally ill children and their families.
Patrick
January 29, 2021
May God Bless Frank. We just saw the Wish Man and wanted to learn more. His inspiration will live on forever and help bring smiles to those in need, even if for a day. Our sincerest condolences to Kitty and his loved ones.
Julianne O
January 29, 2021
I just met him and his sweetheart in Prescott in November by chance... sending much love and honor... Rest In Peace♥
Evonne Williams
January 29, 2021
Dear Kitty,
We are so sorry to hear that Frank died. We have very fond memories of the few times we enjoyed your company, especially the evening in Lincoln when we saw Jeff Dunham. We will keep you in our prayers. God bless you.
With much love and sympathy,
Evonne & Bill Williams
Kay Wiskirchen
January 29, 2021
I got to know Frank when I worked for the Office of Attorney General at
ADOT asAn Internal Investigator. He was a great person to work with as a Administrative Assistant. He always treated me with respect and dignity. He retired while I was on Administrative leave due to an incident in the office. I regret not being able to give him my best wishes.
Linda Collinsworth
January 28, 2021
So very sorry for your loss. Thank you for all you have done. I have a cousin that got her wish. I just watch your movie. Thank you
Becky McKinley
January 28, 2021
My heart goes out to you Kitty and the rest of the family. God Bless you and comfort you.
Michelle MEBIUS
January 28, 2021
I didn't know you, but just finished watching your movie! So I looked you up to find out more and saw that you passed just a few days ago. Me and my family thankfully have never had to use make a wish, but I want to thank you for founding this organization and blessing so many peopkes lives...not just the child getting the wish but their family and relatives too! Seeing a dying child get their wish is a blessing for everyone involved...thanks again for doing what you could to help someone in need!
John Christie
January 28, 2021
I will remember the good old days. You and I working the ditch and Kitty working hard at the Dist. 5 office. You were always an example of kindness with the public. RIP, you have preformed your goodness here, now its time to continue else where. John and Jo Christie.
Mary S
January 28, 2021
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Shankwitz for your loss. Many very sick people have benefited from The Make-a-Wish Foundation that was started by him. May God comfort you during this sad time.
Dave Calarie
January 28, 2021
There's a special place in Heaven for people like Frank. His was a life well lived. What an inspiration. May his friends and family find peace at this sad time in the good memories they must have of this fine man.
James &Virginia Clifton
January 27, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
faith/rory tobin/dockett
January 27, 2021
Dear shankwitz Family Rory and I would luv to express our condolences's on the loss of Frank Shankwitz.he'll surely be missed very much. and may he rest in peace.best faith/rory
Alan Linsday
January 27, 2021
Rest in peace my friend your journey has only Begin.
January 27, 2021
Our lives have been changed by your example
Peace and Rest in Heaven
Becky Jacobsen
January 27, 2021
My husband and I were deeply touched by his compassion for children who were seriously ill. My niece swam with dolphins before she passed away in 2010. We will never forget his tireless efforts to honor and help children with critical illnesses. We cannot thank him enough for all that he did for my sister and her family. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family during this truly sad time.
Sheila Murphy
January 27, 2021
I send my sincere condolences to his wonderful family, I am so sorry for your loss. May God hold you close and give healing peace during this truly sad time. My daughter was able to go to Disney World thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. It was the happiest time of her life. Thank you for bringing so much hope and love to so many children. We will forever remember him and his kindness .
January 27, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
January 27, 2021
My thoughts prayers to the Shankwitz family.
January 27, 2021
Frank truly had a heart of God. We pray that God continues to strengthen and comfort the family during this extremely difficult time.
Stefanne Davenport
January 27, 2021
This is a great list my deepest sympathy.My family and I were just one of the recipients of Make A wish it was awesome for my son to have such a wonderful time in the mist of cancer. Forever great full for this wonderful man.
Sherry Buchbinder and Team barker
January 26, 2021
So honored to have met Frank and to call him a friend. He inspired so many by his kindness and passion and he helped make the world a better place. He was so supportive of Ambassador Doc-Barker, a Canine Ambassador with Make-A-Wish. You inspired us to do fore for the kids. Forever in our hearts Uncle Frank!
Judy-Didona and Joe McMahon
January 26, 2021
You certainly are in heaven. God bless you for all you have done for sick children.
Judy McMahon
January 26, 2021
My condolences.
Marshall Bryer
January 26, 2021
I will miss you .you always brightened my day at secret knock, you were an inspiration to millions rest in oeace
January 26, 2021
This is a man i wish i had known personally.
Someone who wanted to help others and actually acted on that desire. How noble! Im sure he will be missed by many who loved him. My sincere sympathies to his family.
January 26, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
January 26, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Thank you for everything you have done to help those kids.
Deborah Carne
January 26, 2021
In this life it’s rare to meet a hero. Frank was indeed a kind and giving hero. I so regret that my Son, a DPS Sgt., didn’t have an opportunity to meet Frank & Kitty. A life well lived. You will be missed.
Jack Lancellotta
January 26, 2021
Asking Our Blessed GOD & SAVIOR to welcome Frank into HIS Kingdom of PEACE, LOVE & PURITY... and accentuating the Earthly works for goodness forevermore ... AMEN - ALLELUIA!
Carolyn
January 25, 2021
You left quite a legacy behind you for so very many deserving children. You were a wonder of a person and your blessings will live forever. God be with you through you new journey. ♥
Stephanie Schell
January 25, 2021
Your work will be remembered.
Joe Duquette
January 25, 2021
What a legacy this man has left. Sad for his passing.
Stephanie D Schell
January 25, 2021
You will be remembered for founding the organization that helps children dealing with life limiting illnesses 40 years later.
Heidi Schlemminger
January 25, 2021
Always there in spirit
Just gone for a while
In one place
Because space and time are trivial
Harry Simpson
January 25, 2021
Godspeed Frank, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us, and the creation of the "Make a Wish Foundation".
A Make-A-Wish Supporter
January 25, 2021
The world is blessed with people who can see a need and find a way to meet that need repeatedly. Mr. Shankwitz was that type of man and a blessing to all. With sympathy to his family.
Laurie Kruse
January 25, 2021
I am so very sorry for the loss of a wonderful human being. I saw his life story on Netflix and shared that with my nieces and nephews to show them how people like him made a profound difference in the world. RIP Frank Shankwitz and I know that you are sitting at the right hand of our heavenly father.
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