November 1, 1929 – September 27, 2016
Predeceased by his wife Ana, and three young children in Croatia; parents George and Marija; sister Ane Arbanas and grandson Jadran. Survived by his children Nick (Carmen), Helen, Frank Jr (Lesley) and Marion (Darryl); Grandchildren Melissa (Travis), Christina (Andrew), Daniel, Tomi, Marko (Daimi) and Dustin; Great Grandchildren Caden, Rielle, Nickolas, Nolan, Daniela and Mila.
Frank was born in the small village of Kaludjerovac in Croatia. He met and married his wife Ana and they began a family. In search of a better life for his family hi immigrated to Canada in 1958. He worked first at the Arlington Hotel, then as a logger at Sarita Division and eventually at the waterfront as a longshoreman. Once established he brought his family to Canada to join him and he and Ana grew their family further. Work eventually led him to Vancouver where he retired from the waterfront in 1993.
He was active in the sports community, coaching soccer teams in his younger years and even playing a little hockey. He loved the Alberni Valley and spent much time hunting and hiking the areas surrounding it. He was a fixture at the local Hockey rink and ball fields throughout the years and was a hardcore supporter of his Alberni Valley Bulldogs. His main hobby was making his wine and enjoying a good time with his pals. Most of all, he was a family man and watched on with pride as his family has grown over the years.
A Prayer Service will be held 7:00pm, Tuesday, October 4, 2016 from the Chapel of Memories, 4005 – 6th Ave, with a Funeral Service to take place at 1:00pm, Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church, 4731 Burke Road, Port Alberni. Burial to follow in Alberni Valley Memorial Park.
Over the past ten years his health has been a challenge and the family would like to extend a sincere thanks to Dr. Nell and his staff and the doctors and nurses of the West Coast General Hospital for their help over the years. Special thanks to his caregiver Karen Kozocari for her care and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank’s memory may be made to the Port Alberni Junior Hockey Society.