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BORN
1933
DIED
2020
Frank Jankowski Obituary
Frank Raymond Jankowski passed away at the home of his daughter Maxeen Olson, with loved ones around him, on June 20, 2020. He was born on June 16, 1933 in Cudahy, WI to the late Raymond and Nettie (Kubiak) Jankowski.
Frank wed Elaine (Zingsheim) at the Basilica of St. Josaphat, in Milwaukee WI on April 16th, 1955. They resided in Milwaukee where they raised their four daughters and son.
He was employed by Express Freight Lines, Inc. as the parts manager until he moved with his family to the Amherst Area in 1972.
Frank then worked for the McDonald's corporation portraying their famous clown. His wife, Elaine, was his partner and manager. As Ronald McDonald he gave many educational and hilarious performances at schools all over Wisconsin and Michigan. He marched in the famous Appleton Christmas parade every year in full costume. He retired after twenty five years and enjoyed spending time with his family.
His favorite hobbies included golfing, weight lifting, and gardening. He was famous for his homemade raspberry jam which he gave generously to everyone he met.
Frank was a friendly man and enjoyed deep conversations with those whom he befriended.
Frank is survived by one brother Aye Jay (Annie), his Daughters Eileen Bartig, Doreen (Steve) Larson, Maxeen (Mark) Olson, and Chris (Frank) Wileman. He had twelve grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Elaine and his dear sons, Kenneth, John and James, as well as his siblings Maxine, Dorothy Walters, and Daniel.
Information for the memorial service is pending at this time.
He is loved and cherished in our hearts and will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.
Frank would tell us all to, "Smile, God loves you."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Frank Jankowski
Sponsored by the Stevens Point Journal.
Mathew Anderson
July 15, 2020
In 2009 I married Frank's granddaughter Tryst. Our wedding was on the north shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota, which Frank and Elaine traveled to. After the ceremony we had a reservation for the wedding party at a restaurant up the shore. Even though they knew we were coming, we ended up waiting over an hour to be seated. This did not go well with the pile of hungry children we had in tow. For some odd reason (wink), in his suit pocket, Frank had an endless supply of balloons, and proceeded to make animals, hats, and swords for all the kids, and kept them entertained in his Frank fashion until we were able to be seated. It was much appreciated that day, and will not be forgotten.
Dee Fietzer, RN
July 6, 2020
Frank was one of our Cardiac Rehab customers. Let me tell you, he was One Cool Guy! His smile lit up the whole gym; and his hard work inspired everyone in the group to try harder. When new customers--sometimes half his age--would ask, "when can I be done with this Rehab business?" we would tell them, "when you're able to do what Frank is doing." And Frank would just smile. While quietly upping his workload level another notch! Occasionally he would even get up and do the Ronald McDonald jingle and dance, just to liven up a Monday morning. Everyone would clap and cheer him on; because he was just so fun! And his raspberry jam,... Oh my! Nothing like it. God love you, Frank. We're blessed to have know you, even for a little while.
David Gorski
July 4, 2020
As the Weight Lifting Coach at the Oklahoma Recreation Center on Milwaukee's South Side, Frank encouraged, mentored, and guided numerous teens to be their best both as athletes and people.
At the emotionally lowest period of my life, Frank took me into his household and gave me the encouraging family environment I badly needed at that time. Thank you Frank.
Bonny Scharine
July 1, 2020
He gave many in his lifetime the gift of a smile and laughter. You could identify that laugh without seeing him:) As a well-known and loved figure, Ronald McDonald, I felt like I personally knew a famous person! I'm so glad he could spend his last days in the care and comfort and love of his family's home. Our prayers and sympathy are with you all
Nina Cass
June 30, 2020
Strong soul with arms that reached out to gather in those who needed encouragement and love. We are happy you are once again with Elaine, but we will miss you and your perennial smile.
Donna Brenner
June 29, 2020
ALWAYS made you smile and laugh. If you met him, you remembered him. A good, generous man, he will be missed. Happy he is with Jesus and Elaine, right where he wanted to be.
Linda & Gary Landowski
June 28, 2020
I remember Frank and family moving in the area. Taking over Sroda's store in downtown Amherst Jct. A very nice family. That added to the community. A great smile and kind soul. I'm glad he had one more birthday at his daughter's home. Surrounded by love.
Eileen Bartig
June 28, 2020
I love you daddy.
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