Frank Martin Palka, age 84, Inverness, died on September 23, 2015 while under the loving care of his family and the staff of Citrus Health and Rehab. Frank was born on October 11, 1930 to the late Frank and Mary (Blaski) Palka in Oak Park, IL.
Frank proudly served his country as a Marine and was a veteran of the Korean war. During his time in the Marines he played the trumpet and was called upon to play Taps for his fellow soldiers on several occasions.
On September 28, 1957 he married Frances Jones, the love of his life. At the time of his passing, they were just shy of celebrating 58 years of marriage. Frank was known to be a talented sportsman and enjoyed playing baseball in his youth, fishing and bowling. He also enjoyed watching and supporting his favorite teams including the Tampa Bay Rays and the Florida Gators. T
o say Frank was an avid golfer would be an understatement. He was fortunate enough to retire at 58 years of age and was able to devote much of his time to his game of golf. Previously a member of the Clearwater Golf and Country Club, he became a member of the Inverness Golf and Country Club when he and Frances moved to the area 17 years ago.
Left to mourn his passing in addition to his loving wife Frances are his daughters, Jennifer (Sean) Steller of Clearwater, and Suzanne Beal of Inverness; son, Frank Emory (Virginia) Palka of Albuquerque, NM; and two grandchildren, Alyssa Martin and Sydney Beal.
A Funeral Service to honor Frank’s memory will be held at the Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory on Tuesday, September 29 at 3:00 p.m. The family will receive visitors at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in Frank’s honor to the Hospice of Citrus and the Nature Coast, P.O. Box 641270, Beverly Hills, FL 34464.
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