Frank C. Zinkiewicz, of Kirkville, passed away just shy of 83 years of age at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse, NY on Tuesday evening with his wife, daughter, and granddaughter by his side. Frank was born in LaFayette, NY and began his school years in Berkley, CA, before moving back to NY, where he graduated from LaFayette Central High School. He joined the Navy in 1951 and was stationed on the USS Pocono, USS Chilton APA 38, and then the USS Tarawa for his last four years of service as a Boiler Tech 2.
In 1956 he married Katherine King and moved to Brooklyn, NY and then moved to the naval air station in Quonset Point, RI. He was honorably discharged in 1959 and later settled in Kirkville, NY.
Music was a big part of Frank’s life and wherever Frank was you could hear him playing the guitar and singing. Frank played in bands with Wayne Schram at Ozark Inn, calling square dances. He also played in Suburban Park and with several other local bands. He taught guitar lessons with his wife, Kathy. He was the “Leader of the Band” when it came to playing guitar with his sons. All four children and Frank would often sing and harmonize on road trips and at holiday gatherings.
He enjoyed camping with family and friends. Frank was active with Boy Scouts and was a member of the Kirkville Methodist Church for many years.
Frank was predeceased by his parents, Mildred and Joseph Clement Zinkiewicz; and his sister, Marilyn Visconti. Frank is survived by his wife of 60 years, Kathy; their two sons, Mark (Heather) of Tavares, FL and Daniel of LaFayette, NY; their two daughters, Sharon Allen (George Newton) of Kirkville, NY and Holly Zinkiewicz of Rochester, NY; his five grandchildren, Sarah, Cassie, Gregory Nicholas, Daniel and Austin; three great-grandchildren; and three nieces.
Memorial Service will be at 7pm on Monday, August 1 at R.H. Schepp & Son Minoa Chapel, 6530 Schepp’s Corners Rd., Minoa. Calling hours will be from 4-7pm at the funeral home prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Frank’s memory be made to Clear Path for Veterans, 1223 Salt Springs Rd., Chittenango, NY 13037.

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