Obituary of Francis J. Szynaka

Francis J. “Frank” Szynaka 86 of Melbourne, passed peacefully away with his loving family by his side.

Frank was born September 25, 1935 in Mineola, Long Island, New York, to Francis and Catherine (Jaskot) Szynaka. He graduated from Woodstock Academy in June of 1954.

Frank began a lifelong career in 1954 by joining the Air Force. He retired as Master Sergeant after 27 years. He served his country in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966. His military assignments include Tripoli, Libya, Hanscom Field AFB, MA; Jacksonville Naval Air Force Station, FL; Fort Fisher, NC; Indian Mountain, AK; Luke AFB, AZ; Anderson AFB, Guam; and Patrick AFB, FL. He received numerous military decorations, including the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters and the Vietnam Service Medal with two oak leaf cluster.

After retiring, Frank went to work for the civil service. He was assigned to the 45^th Range Squadron at Cape Canaveral Air Station. As a Lead Scheduler, he provided support to our Nation’s Space Launch Program for over 452 major launches, including 68 Space Shuttle missions. He retired from civil service in February 1999.

Frank was predeceased by Ruth Ann Szynaka, his high school sweetheart. They were married for 58 years from 1957-2015.

Survivors include his wife, Donnalee Szynaka, daughters, Donna T. Barnard (James), Brenda C. Szynaka, sons, Stephen F. Szynaka (Bobbie), Anthony T. Szynaka (Brooke), grandchildren, Matthew J. Barnard (Alyssa), Andrew J. Barnard, Danielle C. Bonham (Kevin), Trinity G. Szynaka, Bella T. Szynaka and one great grandchild, Owen M. Barnard.

Frank was an avid golfer and loved golfing with his friends and family. He was a long time member of Manatee Cove Golf Course at Patrick Space Force base. He also enjoyed traveling with his family and friends and visiting with relatives. He will be greatly missed.  Always loving, always loved.