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Frank Zarka Obituary

Frank J. Zarka, M.D. Entered eternal life on August 11 at his home at age 85. One of the most well-respected physicians in San Jose, he was above all a devoted husband and father, and enjoyed spending time with his many grandchildren and great-grandchild. He was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. After serving in the United States Army in England and France during World War II,, he entered St. Louis University Medical School. Following his graduation in 1952, he moved with his young family to San Jose. He completed his residency at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. He later served as Chief of Staff and head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at O'Connor Hospital where he practiced for 43 years. He was renowned among medical professionals for his surgical precision and skillful forceps deliveries. Among his patients he was known for his gentle manner and thorough and compassionate care. He was past president of the Shufelt Society, Associate Professor of Stanford University Medical School, a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and a Member of the Order of Malta. Following retirement he served as a volunteer physician at the Roto-Care Clinic, as President of Serra Club, and as a volunteer serving meals to homeless persons at Martha's Kitchen. He encouraged his children to pursue their own paths, "Be what you want to be, but be good at whatever you choose to do." His family recalls that he never said an unkind word about anyone, and admired him for his compassion and honesty. He used his considerable talents in the service of others and passed this legacy on to his 7 children, each of whom pursued careers in health, legal and social service professions. He died as he lived in the presence of his loving and caring family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Louise, his 7 children: Frank, Jr. (Joni); Jeanne; Paul (Barbara); David (Deborah); Matthew (Susan); Mary Almada; and Thomas (Sheila); 19 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Rosary on Thursday, August 16, 2007 at 7:30PM at St. Martin of Tours Church, 200 O'Connor Drive, San Jose. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated on Friday, August 17 at 10:00AM at the above named church. Private interment. Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 N. Winchester Blvd. assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Carmelite Monastery, 1000 Lincoln Street, Santa Clara, CA 95050 or Martha's Kitchen, 311 Willow Street, San Jose, CA 95110.

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Published by San Jose Mercury News on Aug. 13, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Frank Zarka

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Carol Eichhorn

July 17, 2025

My Mom was a surgical nurse and always told sweet stories about him. I went to school with David (smartest kid in the class. His longest sentence assignment was so long we all said you win! Great family, neighbors and kind. I a have always admired the strength of the Zarka family sorry for your loss

myra casey

April 14, 2023

One great compassionate physician and gentle man who delivered my three daughters. Love him forever

Colin Hackworth

April 11, 2023

Little late but I just found out from papers I found after my mom and grandma died that Dr Zarka delivered me march 24 1980.....thank you sir rip.

Catherine Meynig

June 28, 2020

I was thinking about Dr. Zarka. He was my physician when I became pregnant in 1969 at age 19 and was unwed. At that time it was not looked upon so well. He was so kind to me. I will always remember him.
Catherine McCloskey Meynig

David Zarka

August 11, 2008

Dear Dad:

It has been a year since you have been away, and I miss you very much. I just re-read the booklet we gave you for your 85th birthday, and it brought back some memories and some chuckles. You are an amazing man, Dad. And I just want to say thanks to you for everything. I will keep you in my heart, and look for the day when we will meet again.

Katherine Morris

April 10, 2008

I was so very saddened to hear of Dr Zarka's passing. He was my doctor for over 15 years. He also delivered two daughters for a close friend of mine. He was such a kind man. I can still remember the last time I saw him when I visited him as was retiring from his medical practice. I'm sending many prayers as well as condolences to all members of his family. Reading the other notes written here it's evident Dr Zarka was very loved by his family. Yes, I'm sure he probably looking after the other angels in heaven! Blessings ....

Mary Guedry

September 4, 2007

Ms.Louise, on behalf of the entire Muich Family, we send our sympathy and prayers. My father thought that Frank Zarka was the greatest thing ever and spoke of him fondly and with great memories. He will miss him greatly!!!

Cindy Romero

August 23, 2007

I was out of town when Dr. Zarka passed away and just saw a story on line. My condolences to his family. Dr. Zarka was the first gynocologist I ever went to when I was 18 (I'm 52 now). I was his patient until he retired. He was the best! So gentle, understanding and kind. You could talk to him about anything. It's a bit scary when young girls have to start getting female exams so I really appreciated Dr. Zarka's calm and understanding demeanor. His family already knows this but let me say it again. He was the best!

Ana Zarka

August 21, 2007

Dr. Frank J. Zarka is was and always will be my grandfather. It’s nice to go on this guest book and find so many nice words that describe him, while at the same time it is a bit ironic. My grandfather was a man of very few words, though the ones he spoke were always kind and genuine. He was dedicated to his work, charities, and above all his family. He was always generous with his love; I am reminded of this whenever I meet one of his old patients, or see the faces of my parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Always willing to share a smile he touched my life and from the looks of it, the lives of many others.

Patience, love, kindness, were the hallmark of his life. He showed this best in the love he had for my grandmother. I will always think of my grandparents as being to halves that make up one magical whole. Going to their house and spending a week during each break with them I could see how much they cared for one another. The love they shared was truly amazing.

During his last few days I had the privilege to hold his hand and be there by his side. Never once did he complain or fuss. When he spoke his words were of love. I realize now more than ever what a strong man my grandfather was. As he got closer to that final crossroad he maintained his sweetness and innocence.

My grandfather was an honorable man. When I think of him I will always picture that smile on his face and recall the way his eyebrows would perk up to greet me. I love you grandpa

Marilyn Iseri-White

August 20, 2007

My mother, Aiko Ogata Iseri, was a former patient of Dr. Zarka. She also knew Dr. Zarka and his wife when they were very young and starting out in San Jose. Dr. Zarka delivered myself, along with several of my cousins. On behalf of my mother and myself, we would like to express our sympathy to the Zarka family. He was an exceptional man and doctor and we will miss him.

Elaina Zarka

August 19, 2007

My grandfather was the nicest, calmest, sweetest man I ever knew, and anyone who knew him would say the same. In the weeks leading up to his death, and in the weeks that followed, I saw such an outpouring of love, and it made me realize how many people my grandpa touched. It was an amazing experience and I feel lucky enough to say that I was able to witness it. My grandpa did so much for so many people, and it was nice to see him get the respect and care that he so rightly deserved.

My grandpa was a special man. He will always be special to me. I think about my family -- my aunts, my uncles, my cousins -- none of this would be here if my grandparents hadn't met. I'm so lucky to have my family around me. It has been such a strong network of love and support, and I love being apart of it.

I always thought of my grandfather as an angel on earth. He was an astounding person, and I will always think highly of him. He makes me proud to be a Zarka, and I will love him always.

Hilda Higuera

August 19, 2007

DrZarka was my guardian angel back in 1991 and 1993 when he safely delivered my 2 beautiful children Arian and Alanna. He also found a bening cervical cyst in me during one of the visits and between the babies that he later operated on. I am forever grateful to Dr Zarka and will like his family to know that my prayers and thoughts are with them today.
I am sure Dr Zarka is in heaven performing check ups on the angels

Deb Zarka

August 19, 2007

I've learned so much about Frank Zarka from so many in these few days ~ He was a quiet man, never really one to talk about himself ~ he was truly one of a kind. He would light up when the family gathered and especially as it grew...and grew...and grew!! I am sure that all of us will miss my father-in-law in our own special way, he was always the "calm" in our lives. It fills my heart with pride to be a member of the Zarka family ~

Misty Sarinana

August 18, 2007

My condolences to the Zarka family. Dr. Zarka was my first real and true physician. He was honest and kind. I moved from the area but continued to travel to see him. He delivered both of my boys (now ages 15 and 13). I had easy deliveries with both. Thanks to his patience and expertise. A true gentleman. He will be deeply missed.

Bob Leach

August 16, 2007

As a fellow Serran, I knew Frank as a friend, and a man devoted to the cause of vocations. He was dedicated to the Carmelite Sisters and all men and women concerned for the well-being of their neighbor. He was a true gentleman.

Rita

August 16, 2007

Dr.Zarka was a very special man indeed. My mother introduced me to him by saying "He's not just a good doctor, but he is a very prayerful man." This is what made him the BEST doctor I have ever known, believe me I have looked,since his retirement. He was the most caring, gentle and humble doctor,I miss him. My condolences to his family and friends.
May the Perpetual Light shine upon him, and eternal rest be granted unto him. May he rest in Peace.

Aloyse

August 15, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Frank Zarka. Doctor Zarka was a very important part of my family. He delivered me in July 1962. He delivered my first daughter in April 1986 and my second daughter in November 1987. He also helped bring at least 10 of my neices and nephews into the world. We all got to know what a special man he was.

Sheila Scaglione

August 14, 2007

Our deepest sympathies go out to the family of Dr. Zarka. He delivered both my children (now 22 & 24). He was a very special man. After a difficult birth, he kissed my forehead and told me I did a good job. Then he called his wife and told her "It's a boy!" and he would be home soon. They were going out, but had been delayed by the birth. This kind & loving man will be missed by many.

Dale Yamamoto

August 14, 2007

David-Godfather, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many (RCIA, Fellow Brother Knights, & St Paul's) are with you and your family at this time of sorrow. I'm sure your Father is at home with our Holy Father and is at great peace. God Bless, Dale

Tammy Janosik

August 13, 2007

I am guessing that my daughter is the last baby that Dr. Zarka delivered. I am the Manager of the San Jose RotaCare Free Medical Clinic where Doctor Zarka volunteered for so many years. Just 4 1/2 years ago, I was at the clinic on a Wednesday night and went into labor a few days early. It was unexpected and there weren't any signs that labor was going to begin. Dr. Zarka happened to be on the schedule that Wednesday night (we were only open the one night a week) and he showed up just in time. Fifteen minutes after he walked into the room, I was holding my healthy little girl in my arms. I joked for months that I wouldn't make it to the hospital and little did I know that it wasn't a joke.

Dr. Zarka was such a kind, gentle, caring man. He will always have a special place in the hearts of my entire family. I hope that hearing these wonderful stories provide some comfort to the Zarka family during these difficult times.

Ann Dufour

August 13, 2007

David, You and your family are very much in my thoughts and prayers. Rest assured that someday, your love for your Dad will be greater than your pain for losing him. I am so sorry for your loss.

Anna Marie Perez

August 13, 2007

I never had the privledge to have met Dr. Zarka but I can tell by his children that he must have been a wonderful man and father. I work with his son Paul and no matter what, Paul always has a kind word to say and never forgets a small accomplishment that one does. Paul, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Charlene Kirkland-Mason

August 13, 2007

David our deepest sympathy for you and family in the loss of your father. Knowing that your father was a good and loving man, know that God loved him best. May God hold you and your family in His loving arm in your time of need. Our prayer will be with you.
Charlene and Thomas Mason

Eve Martinez Saizan

August 13, 2007

Just the other day I was looking at my birth certificate in preparation to apply for my passport. I always remembered seeing the signature 'Frank J. Zarka, M.D.' at the bottom as Dr. Zarka was the attending physician who delivered me on September 23, 1955 at 11:44 a.m. in San Jose at Santa Clara County Hospital. My Mom was 20 yrs. old at the time and I was her 2nd baby that had been delivered by Dr. Zarka.

Funny how life is. I never met Dr. Zarka but I was always grateful that he was kind of responsible for bringing me into the world. My Mom always told me that of all her 4 kids, I was the easiest delivery. Thank you for that Dr. Zarka.

My condolences to the Zarka family. May you find comfort in the many stories and good memories that will be shared by all those whose lives Dr. Zarka touched. He was a good man and excellent physician... and he brought joy to many families when he delivered all the babies born in the valley for so many years. Rest well dear doctor.

MaryLee (Strutner) Brewer

August 13, 2007

What a Wonderful man! Husband, Father, Collegue, Friend - he embodied the words of Christ in his daily life. How Blessed we have been!
May cherished memories warm you hearts and provide comfort in the days, months and years to come.

Suzanne Battista (Kokines-Leszczynski)

August 13, 2007

I have been privileged to know the Zarka family thru Dave and Deb Zarka. I will always rememer Mr Zarka with a friendly smile and a warm hello.
No matter how well you knew him or if it was a visit with many years in between he was always happy to see you.
To Mrs Zarka and the Zarka family...my family sends their condolences.

Ginger Hirose

August 13, 2007

Dear Louise & Family...Bless you, my prayers are with you. Dr. Zarka will be missed - my deepest sympathy. Love, Ginger Hirose

Mary L. Moreno

August 13, 2007

I worked with Paul for many years at social services and I am saddened to learn of his father's passing. My sincerest condolences to the Zarka family

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