Frank J. Franczyk, age 76, of Salem, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Frank was born on July 6, 1950, in Poland, the son of Joseph Franczyk and Stefanie (Kopec) Franczyk. On December 26, 1976, he married Elizabeth (Tobiasiewicz) Franczyk in Poland, and together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage.
Frank valued education and earned a master’s degree in business from Loyola. He spent his career working in human resources and retired in 2016 from North American Lighting. Earlier in his career, he worked for Rockwell through 1983.
Frank was a member of St. Theresa Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, the Polish Eagles, and Salem Country Club. He enjoyed golfing and was an avid sports fan, especially when it came to Chicago Bears football. He also enjoyed watching Walker, Texas Ranger, and Magnum P.I.
More than anything, Frank loved his family. He treasured his sons and grandchildren and especially enjoyed cuddling them on the couch and watching games together. He also enjoyed the companionship of his beloved dog, Poncho.
Frank is survived by his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Franczyk of Salem; his sons, Michael Franczyk and wife Michele of St. Louis, Missouri, and Jonathan Franczyk and wife Dasia of St. Louis, Missouri; his grandchildren, Charlotte, Tripp, and Mackenzie; his sister, Stella Cieslinki; his niece, Theresa Parobek and husband Joseph and their sons, Alex and Andrew; his nephew, John Cieslinki and wife Siri; along with several cousins and close friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Irene Franczyk; his brother-in-law, Andy Cieslinki; along with cousins.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, with a Rosary held at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Salem with Father Jose Jacob officiating. Visitation will also be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass at the church
Burial will be at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleums in Calumet City, Illinois.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital and will be received at the funeral home or at St. Theresa Catholic Church. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
