Frank Freeman Falkofske, age 72 of Ellsworth, WI, died on Thursday, January 18, 2018 surrounded by his family. Frank was born on the family farm in Ellsworth on September 18, 1945, to parents Edwin C. and Nellie M. (Bartlett) Falkofske. Frank attended school in Ellsworth, graduating with the Class of 1963. Frank served his country in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, he pursued becoming a teacher, furthering his education at UW-River Falls, earning his Bachelors degree in Art and Phy Ed. Frank would be united in marriage to Mary Hince on April 19, 1975. Their union in marriage was blessed with two sons, Aaron and Nick.

A hard worker, Frank was known to many as a local contractor. A career he joked that started when he climbed the silo ladder on the farm at age five. Frank was a member of the American Legion, served as a Boy Scout Leader, on the UCC church council and as the cemetery sexton. Frank was a world traveler, who as a young man, traveled through Europe twice on 6 month trips, hiking through the countryside and engaging the locals. On one of those trips, he traveled the whole time on just $600. Frank also gave of himself to others as a blood donor. His blood type of O Negative was always in need. Frank donated regularly through the Red Cross, giving over 15 gallons of his blood. Whether telling stories, riding his Pink Cadillac scooter through town, or sharing his special laugh, Frank loved to have fun! He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Frank is survived by his wife of 42 years, Mary; his sons, Aaron (Che) Parr, and Nick (Jennifer) Falkofske; his grandson, Auri; siblings, Tim (Dawn) Falkofske of Arlington TX, Donna (Earl) Kinneman of Ellsworth, Tom (Joanna) Falkofske of Hudson, Gordon (Betty) Falkofske of Apache Junction AZ; sisters-in-law, Carla Falkofske of Springfield VA, and Karin Falkofske of Knapp WI; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Jeremiah; and brothers, Burton and Noel.

In the spirit of giving to others, Frank chose to donate his body to science. A Memorial Service for Frank will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday April 7, 2018 at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Ellsworth, with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 at the Church. To honor Frank, share a smile and a story with someone, or find a Red Cross Blood Drive to donate blood. O’Connell-Benedict Funeral Home of Ellsworth WI. 715-273-4421