Frank Franko

Frank Franko, 100, of Kansas City, Kan., died peacefully on Sunday, December 9, 2007, at KU Medical Center. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Church, 274 Orchard, Kansas City, KS 66101. He will be laid to rest at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, at the Skradski Funeral Home where a rosary will be said at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Catholic Charities of Kansas City, Kan., or to Holy Family Parish. Frank was born Nov. 27, 1907, in Shalkendorf, Austria, and came to this country with his family in 1910. He grew up in Poplar Bluff, Mo., and moved to Kansas City, Kan., in 1934 after marrying Annie Slanc in 1933. Annie preceded Frank in death on Dec. 17, 1991. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John and Josephine Franko; and his siblings, Mary, Joe, Josephine, Rose and Sylvester. Frank is survived by his five children and their spouses, Mary Ann and Don Smith, Dodie and Bill Campbell, John and Mary Franko, Theresa and Richard Collins, Frank and Linda Franko. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and two great- great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many friends. They were all together in a celebration of life at his 100th birthday party on Nov 3. Frank lived an American dream after he immigrated with his family. Marrying Annie in 1933, he moved to Kansas City in early 1934 looking for work during the tough years of the Depression. He found a job with Ford Motor Company and was a dedicated employee until his retirement in 1970. He was an avid gardener and jack of all trades. Frank was known for his skills as a stone mason, plumber, electrician and carpenter. He would attempt to fix anything rather than discard it. His Catholic faith remained strong throughout his life. He insisted on going to a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated in his honor at Holy Family on his birthday. After Mass and a short celebration with his children he had a heart attack. He was active in his Parish and proudly served his Church and community for over 50 years as a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He will be dearly missed by his family and all those who came to know him over these many years. Arrangements: Skradski Funeral Home, Kansas City, KS (913) 371-1404.