Frank Mezeske's Obituary
Frank Mezeske, age 96 was led by the angels to his heavenly home to be with God, who is saying, “well done my good and faithful servant!” on Saturday, December 17.
Frank was born in Irons, Michigan on May 30, 1915 to Peter and Mary Mezeske. Frank was only thirteen when he graduated high school summa cum laude. Books were his passion and words opened his world. He was known to read the Bible over and over.
He loved farming and served his country for three years in the CCC Service. Frank ventured to Muskegon where he worked for 38 years at Bennett Pump as a skilled machinist. Muskegon is also where Frank found the love of his life, Helen Filonow, and within two weeks they were wed.
His greatest loves were his family, farming and fishing. He earned the title of “Master Gardener” and enjoyed being a beekeeper. Dad’s pleasures were simple. Each year he was fortunate enough to fish the Atlantic Ocean with his son Jack. Once to his surprise he caught a 5’ shark and later in Mexico hauled in a massive swordfish. Not long ago his dream to hunt moose in frigid Canada came true. Dad, son Jack, and grandson Mike all bagged their moose. Frank ended up the richest of all just by the way he lived.
Whenever we were in a quandary and sought Dad’s advice he would simply say, “The Good Book says, think about it in your heart and follow your conscience.” It worked. He loved and saw the best in people because Christ did. This gentle man was Gandhi incarnate.
Frank and Helen were married for 68 years. She preceded him in death in 2001. They were blessed with three children and saw to college education for each. They are survived by their children; Phyllis (Jim) Grabiniski of North Muskegon, Philip Jack (Barb) Mezeske of Ft. Meyers Beach, Florida, and Peggy (David) Christensen of Muskegon; 6 grandchildren, Lori (Michael) Cherry of Chicago, Jeff Grabiniski of Muskegon, Shawn (Dan) Nutt of Ravenna, Scott (Diane) Christensen of Minnesota, Michael (Cheri) Mezeske of Coopersville, and Melissa Floyd of Naples, Florida. Frank and Helen also welcomed 7 great-grandchildren, Ryan and Brandon Nutt; Audrey, Renae, and Adam Christensen; and Hunter and Allison Mezeske.
As per Frank’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In honor, if anyone wants to pay tribute to Dad’s life, he would be joyed to have memorial contributions made to Harbor Hospice. They were outstanding to all of us. Contributions may also be made to Sanctuary at the Park on Harvey. They were angels in caring for him. They loved his sense of humor and kindness.
What’s your fondest memory of Frank?
What’s a lesson you learned from Frank?
Share a story where Frank's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Frank you’ll never forget.
How did Frank make you smile?