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BORN
1958
DIED
2021
Jean Frankowiak Obituary
Springfield, IL—Jean Marie (Hagele) Frankowiak was released from earthly suffering on February 12, 2021 at the age of 63. Jean attended Christ the King School, Sacred Heart Academy ('76) and Lincoln Land Community College School of Nursing ('78). Jean was a dedicated nurse at St John's hospital for the entirety of her 38-year career. She was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to her patients and co-workers. Jean was a long-time member of both Christ the King Parish and Saint Agnes Parish in Springfield, IL and was dedicated to her Catholic faith.
To say that Jean's primary focus in life was her family would be an understatement. Jean was born in Springfield, IL as one of 8 children to Dr. Lawrence and Harriet Hagele. Jean remained extremely close with all of her siblings up until her very last days. Jean was married to Ken Frankowiak on October 18, 1980 and was able to enjoy 40 years of marriage prior to her passing. Jean spent the majority of her life in Springfield, moving to the Las Vegas area in 2016 to be closer to her grandchildren in retirement. Jean is survived by her husband Ken Frankowiak of Henderson, NV, daughters Stephanie (Frankowiak) Malabo of Henderson, NV, Carrie Frankowiak of Henderson, NV and Jessica Frankowiak of Fallon, NV.
The absolute light of Jean's life, without question, was her grandchildren. Seeing or hearing from her grandchildren would put a big smile on her face every time without fail. Jean was always so proud of her grandchildren and wanted everyone to know just how wonderful and adorable they were. Jean even boasted to the nurses in the hospital in her final days. Jean's surviving grandchildren include Quinn (9) and Ben (5) Zimbelman of Las Vegas, NV and Evelyn Malabo (4) of Henderson, NV. Jean touched many lives with her antics, laughter and smiles and her presence will be sorely missed.
Jean Marie Frankowiak will be laid to rest in Henderson, NV. A future memorial service will be held at Christ the King Parish in Springfield, IL.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jean Frankowiak
Cheryl Felchner
July 7, 2021
Sincere sympathy to all of Jean´s beautiful family, as I recently learned of her passing. I was fortunate to work with Jean @ SJS many years ago and remember her kind and caring demeanor & friendliness to all. Always proud of her family & interested in all of our families too. Truly an angel then and now. May peace comfort and heal your hearts.
Shirley A Mills
May 1, 2021
Jean radiated warmth, kindness, and faith. I remember her lovely smile through high school and at St. John's Hospital. My condolences to the entire family. May your memories bring you peace. May Jean rest in the loving peace of Jesus.
Shirley (Bruce) Mills
SHA and SJH
Kurt Mundstock
April 30, 2021
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Whenever I think of Kenny & Jean I think of the time they shoveled my Mom’s driveway. You have no idea what an impression that left us! My Mom said “ Kenny got the right girl!” & she was right!
Peg Mahoney
February 20, 2021
Dear Hagele Family - I am so sorry to hear of Jean's passing. This is shocking. Although we hadn't connected since High School I think I always had it in my mind we would re-visit someday and share memories. Jean and Joe were my classmates from Kindergarten through High School. I remember the Hagele house - it was full of life and laughter. I loved the jigsaw puzzle on the table in the basement. There was a new one each time I came over. Jean had a quick sense of humor that makes me smile to this day. When we were freshmen or about to be freshmen, sharing our anxieties over attending a new school with more students, Jean told me - if you smile and say hello to every person, you will have a lot of friends and no one could think ill of you. Jean lived her advice to the fullest. Thank you for this memory, Jean. Thank you, dear Hagele's for the good memories as well! RIP Jean.
Peg Mahoney
February 20, 2021
I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Jean's passing. I had the privilege of having Jean and Joe as my classmates from Kindergarten through High School. I remember the Hagele house - it was always full of life. I loved the jigsaw puzzle on the table in the basement - a new one every time I came over. I lost contact with Jean shortly after High School but always had this idea we would meet again and have a great conversation. Jean's wit is unforgettable. I still smile thinking of some of her quick responses to events and happenings and am grateful for the memories. When we were high school freshman in a new school, Jean gave me some great advice and encouragement. She said, if you always smile and say hello to others, you will have a lot of friends and no one can think ill of you. Thank you, Jean - I carry that to this day. You lived your advice to the fullest! RIP
Katie (Patton) Harris
February 18, 2021
Carrie and Frankowiak
I am so incredibly sorry to hear about the passing of Jean. Please know that I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Leigh (Steinkamp) Holstein
February 18, 2021
Dear Carrie and family,
I am truly sorry to hear about your mom's passing. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Don and Pat Frank
February 18, 2021
Dear Ken, Stephanie, Carrie and Jessica,
We were so sorry to hear about Jeans passing. She was one of the most kind people and most compassionate nurses we ever knew. Her daughters are just like her. Always a smile and kind word whenever you saw them. What a wonderful legacy she has left. Carrie was in my daughters class at St. Agnes and was always such a kind and true friend to her. You all now have a beautiful Angel watching over you. She will be greatly missed.
February 18, 2021
Ken and family, please accept our condolences for Jean's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gene and Carol Burnett, Columbia, IL
Ricky Hill
February 18, 2021
What a great women she was so nice, smiling every time I would see her. So sorry for you lost. Will keep you in my prayers.
Jamie Howard
February 17, 2021
Jean was my best friend all during grade school. And she came with a twin so I had two best friends and he had a best buddy so we were the four J’s. We had more fun riding bikes trying to get lost and find our way home. And we were only in fox meadows!! We would watch dark shadows after school and then play Barnabas in Mrs Hagele’s Hope Chest! On Saturday’s we would take 15 cents out of the yellow container in the kitchen cabinet and ride the bus all day!! Maybe get off and take pictures in the photo booth at the dime store downtown. I loved going to the Hagele’s You could hear the laughing from their kitchen a block away. It was a faith filled family and I believe Jean practiced unconditional love her entire life. She was just so funny. She found laughter in all situations. The whole family was crazy and loving. We were in touch this summer when I told her I had to answer a security question. They asked me the birth month of my best friend and I automatically entered February. And it had been years since we were best friends. Jean and I wished each other happy birthday January 28 days earlier than usual. We laughed about the same stuff sleep overs, the fort, the bus, Harriet and Larry. We always talked how Mrs Hagele wore an apron and when I put one on I think of her! Jean was such a good person I hope she is already in heaven with her little Mary, her parents, Selma, Marie and Fr Ralph. My heart goes out to Joe Mary Beth, Bob Cathy, Bee, Julie and Annie Oxoxo Jamie
Mary Lynn Egizii
February 17, 2021
What can I say about the one and only "mommy"? She was a great friend, co worker and most importantly your mommy.
Love to you and all the Hageles. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Lynn Egizii
Noreen Lazzeri Luhr
February 17, 2021
My heart is so sad hearing of Jean’s passing. She was one of the most beautiful, sweet and kind people I have ever met. That smile, that laugh, her hugs and happy personality will remain in my thoughts of Jean forever! My thoughts and prayers to all of her family at this difficult time. My life has been blessed with having had Jean to call my “friend”❤
Natalie Ciaccio Bales
February 17, 2021
Dear Kenny and Frankowiak Family; Bob and Theresa and Hagele Family,
If ever there was kind, loving, caring and faithful person on this earth, it was Jean. She and I go back many years and even though we didn't stay in touch on a regular basis, when we saw each other it was as if it was just yesterday. In addition to calling her friend, Jean was also my nurse when I had surgery. I was petrified and she calmed my fears, talked to me, prayed with me and made me laugh a lot! I enjoyed seeing her interact with her girls - it was always with a loving smile. Jean was one of the good ones, gone way to soon. May your memories of her keep her alive in your hearts. Heaven gained a sweet angel.
Becky Beyers
February 17, 2021
God Love ya, Jeannie. I worked with Jeannie @ St. John's for years & working with Jeannie, Kathy Vaca, Becky Cobau & others in PACU was such a fun time. We were just one big family & team. She always had a smile on her face...so many laughs. Even in later years after PACU whenever I saw her in the halls & places she still had that infectious smile & had the ability to make me laugh. Such a good person who will be greatly missed. My thoughts & prayers are with you Ken & your family.
Nancy Fox Lane
February 17, 2021
“Bee” was one of my most unforgettable students at Christ the King. She was always happy and had a smile for everyone. I also saw her at St John’s when I had my own children. We are all blessed to have her in our lives. Prayers sent to her family and friends.
Danielle Wood
February 16, 2021
I had the privilege of working with Jeanie in PACU! So many fond memories. Jeanie was kind, always had a smile. We could have a crazy , busy night and before you know it she would have all of laughing.
I know Heaven is a little more brighter now that she is there!
May God help you navigate thru such a sorrowful time!
Theresa Tea Gore
February 16, 2021
I met Jean at Christ the King in sixth grade. At her birthday party one year, she and I sang Tapestry by Carole King. Jean’s laugh was contagious! My thoughts are with Joe (also a great laugh-er) and Jean’s husband and family.
Peg Ference
February 16, 2021
Such a positive and happy person. Xoxox
Lori Burnet Nafziger
February 16, 2021
Jean and I worked together on 3rd floor. She always made getting a report from recovery room fun. Always a smile and a kind word from her. God Bless your family. Heaven gained a beautiful Angel.
Tammie Klein
February 16, 2021
So very sad to hear of Jean’s passing. Always such a giving, happy person. Loved working with Jean and seeing her at St. Agnes with Jess in the past. Hugs to all.
Therese Schmidgall
February 16, 2021
Frankowiak and Hagele Families - I am so sorry to hear of Jean's passing. I worked w/ sister Bee at the mall years ago and knew Jean from then. I also had the pleasure of her helping me at the hospital while having a blood draw. She was always very kind and caring. I am keeping your families in my prayers during this difficult time. Deepest sympathies.
Diane Sanders
February 16, 2021
I had the pleasure of knowing Jean thru our years together at St John’s.
She was always found with a smile on her face and a kind word from her lips.
My thoughts and prayers are with her whole family- especially her sister Terese (my long time co-worker) and her girls Lauren and Anna❤
Andrew Sauer
February 16, 2021
Jean treated folks with kindness and respect and you could always count on her for a laugh or a smile. I have very fond memories of our interactions from years gone by. Extending my deepest sympathies to the Hagele and Frankowiak families, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Take care,
-Andrew Sauer
Nancy (Benanti) Cawley
February 16, 2021
Julie and Teresa
sorry to hear of Jeans passing
Jeans smile/laugh will be missed by many
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Molly Grady-Risse
February 16, 2021
Kenny and Family,
I was so saddened to hear of the loss of Jean. She was a dynamic individual, in every aspect of life. I met Jean, Freshman year, at SHA. We had so much fun in school, especially when we graduated, and Jean, Rita, Marilyn, Pam, Patty, Marianne, and I, headed to Florida, in two vehicles, to spend a week in Daytona together. You talk about the laughs we had, and could you just imagine, how it was on the roadways, when a few of the girls, had never driven on the interstate. Well, we made it there and back, with some scares, and a swollen face and limbs. In School, we always had to sit in alphabetical
Order, so when the nuns did attendance, she could look right at you. My maiden name was Grady, so In home room and some classes, we always sat next to each other. The fun and antics, carried on, way after we graduated. Jean, you brighten everyday, and so many lives. I will always smile, when thinking of you. You, will be missed, my Dear Friend.
God Bless All, and please Be Safe
Diane Taylor Schlindwein
February 16, 2021
Jean was a friend from high school. She was very accepting of all kinds of people and had a great sense of humor. May she rest in God’s peace.
Teresa Conley Bettis
February 16, 2021
I am so very sorry for your loss. Jean was an amazing women with a beautiful smile. She made the world a better place and sunshine has dimmed some from her passing. Godspeed! With love, Teresa and family.
APRIL SMITH
February 16, 2021
Kenny and family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Jean was fantastic and a loving person. Our thoughts are with you and the kids. Peace to you all.
April
George C. Alewelt
February 16, 2021
Ken and family. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Dave Gurnsey
February 16, 2021
Ken,
My sincerest condolences to you and your family.
Ron hartley
February 16, 2021
One of St John’s finest. She will be missed by all. Prayers to family and friends.
Maureen Drake Cavanagh
February 16, 2021
Jean was the most unique and wonderful woman. Sitting at our daughter's ball games, a PTA type meeting or just in the grocery store. Kind. Hilarious. Giving. I am so sorry for your loss Frankowiak family. Jean was a gem. Mo Cavanagh
Karen Keen
February 15, 2021
Jean was a very dear friend and I was lucky enough to work with her for 30 years at SJH. I have so many fond memories and shared many laughs and tears with her. She truly loved her family and her faith. I’m sad to lose a dear friend, but know that she is no longer suffering and will always be watching over us.
Jim Baggs
February 15, 2021
Ken and family,
Please accept my most sincere condolences at the loss of your wife.
Just last night, I was sharing the pho of my son when he was ring bearer at your wedding.
If you need anything don’t hesitate to contact me.
Hang in there brother.
Jim Baggs
Linda L Constant
February 15, 2021
Kenny, I have you in my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember the wonderful care Jean gave me after my surgery in 1985. She was a kind and gentle soul and will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Jayne Carlock
February 15, 2021
Jean & my 1st RN jobs were in the CPU unit at St Johns back in 1978.
Jean always had a smile & was truly a good person. I’m so sorry to her family for their loss
Jill Blackburn
February 15, 2021
Kenny and Family,
My heart goes out to you all! I never really got to know Jean, but Kenny was a great childhood friend and I am so sorry for your loss!
Jill Edgecomb Blackburn
John Fleischacker
February 15, 2021
Ken, my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Please let Karen and I know if you ever need anything. We are just down the street and always available.
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