Frank J. Schaaf

Atkinson — Frank John Schaaf, 96, of Atkinson, died Thursday, April 20, 2023 in Atkinson. 

Visitation was held Monday, April 24, 2023 at Seger's Funeral Home in Atkinson with a 7 p.m. prayer service. Husker apparel was requested by the family.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Atkinson. Fr. Ross Burkhalter officiated. Music was provided by soloist Leanna Vrooman and organist Diane Osborne.

Pallbearers were Lee and James Winkler, Jeffrey Finley, Janessa Finley-Ford, Trista and Julia Schaaf and Heath and Caden Johnson.

Honorary pallbearers were Kevin, Wayne, Dean and Jerry Monahan and Travis Finley-Ford.

Burial was in the St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Atkinson with military rites provided by the Atkinson American Legion Farley/Tushla Post No. 86 and the Legion Riders.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

Frank was born on March 5th, 1927 at the Stuart Hospital. He graduated from St. Joseph's  High School in 1944 at the age of 16.  

He worked for various ranchers until he was drafted into the U.S. Army.  Frank served in Korea where he perfected his ability to cook for large groups and continued to cook for the American Legion Post 86 and for his family and holiday gatherings.  He was honorably discharged in 1957.  He was very proud of serving his country with the “special seven” military buddies and continued reunions yearly.

After his tour of duty Frank married Marilyn Humpal on Sept. 2, 1953.  To this union five children were born.  

He began working at Atkinson Sand and Gravel with his father-in-law, eventually acquiring it and added Schaaf Redi-Mix, where he continued to work until his retirement and beyond.

Frank enjoyed playing on the All-Stars baseball and softball teams, following his Huskers along with other sports, bartending and some woodworking and coffee with friends at the “College of Knowledge.” He also played guitar and sang weekly at the Atkinson Good Samaritan Center for many years. 

Frank is survived by his wife Marilyn of Atkinson; four children Sheryl (Jerry) Winkler of Atkinson, Sandi (Dennis) Finley of Ewing, Vicky (Mark) Johnson of Atkinson and Rocky (America) Schaaf of Seattle, WA; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two sisters-in-law Darlene and Connie Schaaf both of Atkinson.

He was preceded in death by his son Steve Schaaf, one granddaughter Julia Schaaf, his parents Henry and Rose Schaaf, one sister Mary Ellen Monahan, two brothers Don Schaaf and Leon Schaaf and one “other brother” Paul Brau.