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Remembering Frank Kiszka: A Life of Love, Music, and Legacy

On April 27th, 2023, Frank Kiszka, a beloved member of the Flushing, Michigan community, passed away at his home at the age of 94. Frank lived a life full of love, hard work, and musical talent, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire his family and those who knew him. In this article, we will honor Frank's memory by celebrating his life, his accomplishments, and the impact he had on those around him.

Early Life and Family

Frank Kiszka was born in Flint, Michigan, on September 11, 1928, to George and Mary Kiszka. He was the youngest of their four children, and from an early age, he showed an exceptional talent for music. At just six years old, Frank could play songs from the radio on his harmonica by ear, impressing his family and friends. His parents recognized his musical gift and purchased him an accordion at the age of ten, which he played with great skill.

Frank's life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Lillian Zalesak. They were married on November 7, 1953, and spent 70 wonderful years together. Frank and Lillian were blessed with three children, two daughters, Janelle and Carolyn, and a son, Kelly. The family lived in Flint, Michigan, for the first 24 years of their marriage, where Frank worked as an electrician and owned his own electrical contracting company. In 1977, they moved to Flushing, Michigan, where they settled for the remainder of their lives.

Service in the Navy

Frank served his country proudly in the Navy, joining on November 3, 1948. He served aboard the USS Columbus naval ship and was honorably discharged on September 15, 1952. Frank's service to his country was something that he was always proud of, and it instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism and duty that he carried with him for the rest of his life.

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Musical Career

Frank's greatest passion was music, and he spent much of his life sharing his talent with others. He began playing professionally at the age of twelve, performing at weddings and parties with the Eight Aces, which later became the Bedrick Smeage Band. When Frank returned from his service in the Navy, he rejoined the Bedrick Smeage Band, and they continued to play together for the next 19 years.

In 1964, Frank formed his own band, the Czech Notes, with whom he performed until his retirement nine years later. The band played traditional polka music, and Frank's accordion playing was a highlight of their performances. Frank's love for music was contagious, and his bandmates and audiences alike could feel the joy that he brought to every performance.

Frank's musical talent did not go unnoticed, and he was awarded the honor of induction into the Michigan Polka Hall of Fame in October of 1991. This recognition was a testament to Frank's skill as a musician and the impact that he had on the polka music community in Michigan.

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Legacy and Impact

Frank Kiszka's legacy as a musician continues through his son and grandsons. His son Kelly, performing as Papa Kiszka, is a vocalist and plays blues harmonica with various bands throughout mid-Michigan. His grandsons are three of the four band members of the Grammy Award-winning, international rock band Greta Van Fleet; Josh (vocals), Jake (guitar), Sam (bass and keys).

Frank's legacy goes beyond his musical talents. He was a man who lived a life of service, and he instilled that value in his family. His daughter Janelle is a nurse who has dedicated her life to helping others, and his son Kelly is a veteran who served his country in the Army. Frank's strong family values and his commitment to service will continue to inspire and impact future generations.

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