Frank Robert Blazina, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on March 22, 2020, in LaGrange, IL, at the age of 94. He was born on September 1, 1925, to Julia Gregorich Milhelsic Blazina and Frank Joseph Blazina in Springfield, IL.

Frank graduated from Holy Redeemer Catholic School in Detroit, MI in 1943. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and trained as a B-25 pilot. Frank loved airplanes, and he loved to fly. In 2016, Frank participated in a veteran’s Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

After the war, Frank returned to Detroit to begin his long career with Union Carbide Corporation. He became president of a Union Carbide subsidiary, Linox in Hillside, IL. Frank’s career required travel and many moves. As a result, he spent time in all 50 states. After retiring from Union Carbide, Frank served on the board of Taft Engineering in Chicago, IL, traveling monthly to Taft from his retirement home in Flat Rock, NC.

Frank met his wife, Regina “Gina” Blanchette, when they were students at Holy Redeemer. They were married at Holy Redeemer in 1950. Together, they raised three daughters.

Frank read the newspaper every day and enjoyed novels. Frank also enjoyed music and whistling. He loved to dance; Frank and Gina were a glorious sight on the dance floor.

Frank loved the outdoors. He could identify birds by the sound of their call and could identify trees by their leaves. He enjoyed cars and driving,

Frank possessed a full workshop of tools and could fix anything, always glad to help others.

In retirement, Frank golfed, although he preferred working on projects to other activities. Frank and Gina were long-time members of Edgewood Valley Country Club in LaGrange, and, in retirement, members of Kenmure Golf Club in Flat Rock.

Frank was a quiet man, comfortable with silence. A gentleman, he embodied dignity. He believed in prayer and carried a rosary in his pocket.

Frank’s parents immigrated from Croatia. They raised eight children; Frank was their youngest. He was preceded in death by all his siblings.

Frank was also preceded in death by his wife, Gina, who passed away on July 18, 2013. Honoring his wedding vows to the end, Frank cared for Gina for several years before her death.

Frank is survived by his three daughters: Karen Marie (Kevin) Lynch of Downers Grove, IL; Cheryl Ann (Mark) Peters of Delafield, WI; and Sandra Kay (Peter) Schneider of Winfield, IL. Also surviving are Frank’s five grandchildren: Marie Lynch (John) Sturgeon; Brian (Ellie) Lynch; Regina Peters; Alexandra Schneider; and Elizabeth Peters. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.