Obituary of Frank Kaszas

KASZAS, FRANK passed away peacefully on Monday, December 26, 2005 at the age of 87 years. He was predeceased by his mother, father and two brothers, all of Hungary. Frank is lovingly remembered by his wife of 36 years, Mary; stepson Dale Maley; granddaughter Miranda (Keith) Light and two great-granddaughters, Jazaiah and Sephra; step-son Don Maley and grandson Kendon Maley. Frank was born on August 5, 1918 in Hungary. He lived through World War II and survived more than three years as a prisoner of war in Estonia, Russia and Siberia. After his release he tried to lead a normal life, but being a Major in the army he was asked to train and lead citizens against the Soviet Army during the short-lived revolt. He was tipped off about his upcoming arrest and escaped to Austria in the midst of the 1957 Hungarian Revolution and came to Canada a year later. In Canada, he made brief stops in Vancouver, Ocean Falls and Trail, BC learning sign painting. He also worked in Yellowknife and in Calgary. Frank moved to Regina and started Central Signs with the help of Mary, his girlfriend, later to become his wife. Frank was always interested in art and started to draw and paint in oils. His artistic talents covered all mediums, oil, watercolor, and pen and ink. Franks works have been shown at the McKenzie Art Gallery, Dunlop Art Gallery and the "Gallery on the Roof SaskPower. He sold his artworks and prints at Bazaart, Arlington Art Gallery and presently at Ripplingers Art Gallery. He also taught art and some students have gone on to become successful artists. In sign painting he taught three of his workers who became sign painters. Frank was a natural teacher. He loved to paint and did all the artwork at the Hungarian Cultural Club which he was secretary of for eight years. Frank was a very kind and gentle man. He loved his family very much and also enjoyed his profession to the fullest. He always found time for others and welcomed all into his shop, home and heart. Frank enjoyed fishing, swimming and cooking. Special thanks to Dr. Clein, Dr. Alam, Music Therapist, Louise Cadrin and all the wonderful nursing staff at both the William Booth Grace Hospice and the Palliative Care Unit at the Pasqua Hospital for their compassion, support and devoted care. Their kindness and professionalism was greatly appreciated. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Franks life will be held on Friday, December 30, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. in Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina with Pastor Henry Friesen officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Regina Palliative Care Inc., 4101 Dewdney Avenue, Regina S4T 1A5 or William Booth Wascana Grace Hospice, 50 Angus Road, Regina S4R 8P6. An on-line book of condolence may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com