Frank John Wankowski

Frank John Wankowski of Bradenton, Florida passed away on January 1, 2017 after a very brief illness. Frank was born on September 16, 1962 in Kearny, New Jersey.

Frank spent his youth in New Jersey where he participated in many activities and sports, but he particularly excelled at the sport of football. He graduated high school in the class of 1980 from Queen of Peace High School in New Arlington, NJ, a letterman on the football team for four years. Frank had several opportunities to earn a college scholarship to play at the next level, but he decided instead to follow in the footsteps of his father (who retired as Lieutenant of the East Newark Police Department) into a career of protecting the public and he went to fire school to become a fireman.

Frank attended fire school in Florida and joined the Bradenton Fire Department in July, 1985. He stayed with the Bradenton Fire Department and ascended to the position of Nautical Captain prior to being forced into a medical retirement in November, 2002. Over his 17 years on the fire department he was universally admired and respected by his peers, his management, and the men and women that served under him.

Family was the most important thing to Frank, followed closely by being a fireman something that was more than just a job to him, but also his passion. He also liked to collect and shoot various firearms, cheer for the Florida Gators, and collecting Fire Department-related memorabilia and antiques.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife of 29 years, Terrie Horne Wankowski, who passed away in March, 2016. Frank is survived by two sons, Craig Wankowski and Jarrett Wankowski, both of Bradenton, who were together his pride and joy. He is also survived by his parents, Frank and Marie Wankowski, of New Port Richey, his brother David (Liz) Wankowski, of Indian Rocks Beach, his sister Marie (Eric) Corbett, of Fernandina Beach and many nieces and nephews.