Francis "Frank" John Sinek

FRANCIS JOHN SINEK

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Francis John Sinek at age 79.

Known to the world as Frank, he was born in Pocahontas, Iowa to James Sinek and Barbara Hammes Sinek.

Attending the University of Iowa, Frank graduated with a degree in political science.  Upon graduation, Frank started with the Social Security Administration (SSA) working in a field office in North Carolina.  He transferred to Baltimore when SSA began computer operations.  As a programmer working between Philadelphia and Baltimore, he met his future wife, Jane. Frank worked for SSA for 34 years and was fortunate to retire at an early age.

Frank and Jane have two children, Deborah of Charlottesville, Virginia and Michael of Odenton, Maryland. Michael is married to Debra Riefflin Sinek.  Frank was very proud of his family and enjoyed family events and holiday gatherings. He is also survived by his sister, Janice Turcotte of Omaha, Nebraska.

Frank played baseball and basketball in high school.  He taught both Deb and Mike how to hit and field. He was an avid bowler competing in many leagues in the Baltimore area. As a fan of the Orioles, Frank and Jane would travel to Sarasota each spring to watch the Orioles at spring training. Frank also followed the Ravens, Terps, Iowa Hawkeyes and was a fan of thoroughbred racing,

Frank took great pleasure in reading, always having a book on the nightstand and many newspapers and magazines to read daily. As a self-described news junkie, he followed with great interest many topics, his favorite being politics. When he learned of his prognosis he expressed regret that he would miss the election.

Frank was an adventurous eater and loved food. He was a good cook and bread-making was a serious hobby of his. Frank’s rolls, breads and carving skills will be missed by his family on the holidays.

One of his favorite activities was “Lunch with the Old Guys” at the Trolley Stop in Ellicott City.

Possessing an even temperament and never one to miss a good joke, Frank often had well-timed wry and witty comments. He never chose to be the center of attention, but it was obvious he got the joke.

A lover of country and folk music, his favorite artists were Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and John Prine.  A few of his favorites were “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys” and “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain”. But the radios were tuned to a classical station.

An avid walker, Frank trekked up to five miles per day, in the early morning hours, rain or shine. He started his walking regimen in 1977 and did not stop until he became ill this past year.

He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October of 2014. The months of chemotherapy and radiation were surprisingly easy for him. He had none of the usual side effects and was enjoying all of his regular activities in between medical appointments.  In July he reported feeling as good as he had in over a year.  Not too long after that, his symptoms returned.

Frank will be greatly missed by his family and friends.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be sent to:

Gilchrist Hospice Care, Inc. 5537 Twin Knolls Road, Suite 434 Columbia, MD 21045. https://gilchristhospice.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=469