Francis "Frank, Frankie" Eugene Belka
March 26, 2020
Francis “Frank, Frankie” Eugene Belka, 81, formerly of
DeForest, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2020 at St. Clare Meadows Care
Center in Baraboo, as God's Will was done. Frank was born on June 4, 1938 to Joseph and Tillie
Belka, Plainfield, WI. He worked both as a skilled welder at Metaskills, formerly
in Middleton, as well as a United States Veteran in the Army and Air Force
Reserves for over 30 years. Frank was a long-legged man among men. A gentle man. A
true quiet man and thinker. Besides being a provider to his family, Frank
was a gambling, keno, euchre and cribbage enthusiast and enjoyed many trips
with his beloved wife. He was a stock-exchange watcher. A bird (in particular bluejays)
and squirrel watcher. The best tomato and vegetable gardener. Dog sitter. A
fisherman. Green Bay Packer fan. A beer-n-brandy-hold-the-barstool-down man. A
Sunday country-ribs-on-the-grill man. He was a lover of orange pop, his wife's
Thanksgiving stuffing and turkey drumsticks as well as Mary's favorite, ginger
molasses cookies which played second fiddle to his favorite: oatmeal
raisin cookies; both made by his favorite daughter in law. Survivors include his favorite, one and only break-the-mold
son, Michael and his wife, JoEllyn (Blau) Belka of Merrimac; brother-in-law,
John Piotroski of Texas; and many wonderful nieces and nephews. Frank was preceded in death by the love of his life,
Mary; his parents; and brother-in-law, Jim Piotroski of Texas. Frank had several siblings including Mandley Belka, Esther
Belka (Ed Mosako), Molly Belka (Arnold Armbricht), Betty Belka, Joyce Belka and
Barb Belka (Jim Walker). A celebration of Frank’s life will be held at a later
date. The family would like to thank the staff at the St.
Clare Meadows who stood fast by "Crankie Frankie" despite his testing
many of their patience through the years; especially Dr. Mustain, Kristi, Charlotte,
the girls at the café and the several staff who saw to him through to
life eternal, giving care and kindness the family could not provide. All who knew Frank were blessed for the gift of him.
Mike and JoEllyn rejoice, as Dad “Frankie” is fully whole and healed, next to
his dear Mary in heaven, as they drink brandy and play euchre with the family
and friends before him. The night sky is brighter as they both guide from
the stars above. A softer and more gentle soul will be hard to find~thank
you…
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