Francis Matlachowski

Francis “Frank” Matlachowski, 85, of Warroad, MN, formerly of Barrington, IL passed away Thursday, January 15, 2015, in Grand Forks, ND.

He was born December 4, 1929, in Zurich, Switzerland to Henri and Anne (nee Alamaru) Matlachowski. Frank married Dawn Hegstad Drew on February 13, 1983, in Stamford, CT.

He enlisted in the Army following his immigration to America and served briefly at the end of WWII. He became an American citizen in 1953.

Frank’s career spanned many years in the air freight industry with both airlines and forwarders. He worked at Air Express International in Des Plaines and enjoyed flying around the Midwest after earning his private pilot license in 1956.

Frank read extensively and loved to work crossword puzzles. He enjoyed serving his community and was a member of the Warroad Lions Club and the Rotary Clubs when living in Illinois and Connecticut.

He had a delightful sense of humor, was very determined and thoughtful of others. He made the best of everyday and provided wisdom without judgment.

In addition to his wife, Dawn, survivors include his children, John (Jeannie) Matlachowski, Joan Caldwell, Janet (William) Doree, and David (Maritza) Matlachowski; former wife, Helen Matlachowski; step-children, Tammy Pepper, Tracie Drew, Kevin (Paula) Drew, Marcy (Bill) Sotire, and many loving grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Frank’s name may be made to the Warroad Lions Club Leader Dog Program, Security State Bank, Attn: Gary/Lions, PO Box 70, Warroad, MN 56763.

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