Frank "Sonny" Chladny (87) entered eternal life on December 22, 2023, peacefully escorted by angels and with his loving family by his side.
Frank was a proud veteran of the Army and valued his service as a Marksman. His experience in the Army played a very significant role in his life. He approached life with a willingness to help. He was passionate about improving the lives of children and served these children through volunteering and fundraising as a Shriner. He was also a member of the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus.
Frank was known for his strong work ethic which he passed along to his daughters. He worked for Westinghouse, Fusion Babbitting, and Harnischfeger as a machine operator and supervisor. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid trap-shooter who loved deer and duck hunting.
After retirement, Frank and Mary moved to Florida to enjoy the warmer weather and golfing. They then returned to Wisconsin to spend their later years closer to their daughters and family.
One of his biggest accomplishments was being a father, grandpap, and great-grandpap. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family. He was always there for them through life events to offer his love, support, and encouragement. In his later years, he often said 'I'm waiting for you' as his daughters would say goodbye after visiting. He cherished spending time with family.
Frank was born in Tarentum, Pennsylvania on June 29, 1936. He was a caring husband, father, grandpap, great-grandpap, brother, and friend.
Frank is survived by his loving wife Mary (Mariani), and his three daughters, Jodie Kulp (Marty), Michele Gust (Mike), and Sherrie Goll (Todd). Frank left behind six grandsons, Sean Kulp (Ann), Shane Kulp (Brianna), Christian Gust, Alek Gust, Ashton Goll, and Ayden Goll; and three great-grandchildren, Nora, Mara, and Colton Kulp. He was also the loving brother to Patricia Frederick (Chladny) and dear nephews Joe and Kelly Frederick.
There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed we are for family and friends who were there for us during this difficult time. A heartfelt thank you to the compassionate and caring hospice staff at the Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Medical Center.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Wisconsin Memorial at 13235 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, WI 53005 on January 15, 2024. There will be a visitation from 9:30 am – 10:15 am, followed by a Communal Memorial Service at 10:15am with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Frank's name to the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.