Francis Michael Kossek, Sun Oil retiree

Francis “Frank” Michael Kossek, 84, of Milton, passed away from complications of Parkinson’s disease Friday, March 31, 2023, at his home surrounded by loved ones. He was born May 5, 1938, in Wilmington, son of the late Frank and Helen Kossek.

Frank was a 1956 graduate of Salesianum School and a proud Salesian. He began a career as a pattern maker with Pusey and Jones Corporation, a major shipbuilder in Wilmington, before joining Sun Oil Companies as an electrician. Frank built his career there, later becoming the superintendent of the Electrical Engineering Department, serving many dedicated years until his retirement in 1991. He then started his own marine electrical company, which he operated until 2010.

Frank was an avid outdoorsman and was in his element doing anything in nature, be it hunting, fishing, or crabbing, and he enjoyed boating and water skiing as well. He loved sharing his love of the outdoors with his family and many friends. He built a home on the Indian River Bay, a summer destination for the whole family and one that was anticipated all school year long for the kids. On that last day of school, the car was packed up and it was straight to the beach for the summer. That beach home held thousands of cherished family memories. Frank made the permanent move to the beach in 2007. He was an active member of the Parkinson’s Support Group, participating in physical therapy and boxing at RISE Fitness. Over the last several months, Frank enjoyed attending Easterseals and especially enjoyed the delicious food that was served.

Above all, Frank treasured time with his family, especially his adored grandchildren, who were the apples of his eye. Throughout the years, he took great pleasure in taking trips to Disney with his grandchildren. Frank was nothing less than a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He was loved by so many and will be forever missed.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his grandson Jeremy Kossek; and his son-in-law Chuck Manlove. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Joan Kossek of Milton; his children, Terry Morris (Ron) of Sunrise, Fla., and Diane Rogosky (Steve) of Harpersville, Ala., Tom Kossek (GiGi) of Bear, Ann Marie Manlove of Middletown, and Shannon Pencek (Matt) of Milton; his grandchildren, Matt Morris (Carrie), Chris Morris, Alicia Hershey (Brendon), Natalie Welch (Tommy), Josh Kossek (Robyn), Jess Manlove, Tom Manlove, Jack Pencek and Connor Pencek; nine great-grandchildren; and his brothers, Joe Kossek (Elaine) of Townsend, and Jimmy Kossek of Wilmington.

The family wishes to thank Easterseals, ChristianaCare HomeHealth and Hospice for the excellent care that they provided to Frank. Joan is especially grateful to Tom, Ann Marie and Shannon for their constant love and support throughout Frank’s life, and especially as his health declined.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Friday, April 7, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where friends may call beginning at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County, P.O. Box 56, Lewes, DE  19958, sussexdeparkinsons.com/donate; or Easterseals, 61 Corporate Circle, New Castle, DE  19720, de.easterseals.com.

Visit Frank’s Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.