Frank Matthew Harnisch

Frank Matthew Harnisch, 87, of Cary passed away on March 2, 2026. Born September 22, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to Frank and Mary (Lulich) Harnisch. Frank was devoted, hard-working, wise, and generous throughout a life defined by steady commitment to family, service, and craft.

Born on the Southside of Chicago, Frank graduated from Chicago Vocational High School. He was a stand out tight end during high school on a city championship team.

Frank served in the U.S. Army as a radio operator. He spent his career as an aircraft mechanic, working for Priester Aviation, Flying Tigers, and FedEx.

Frank married Katherine Ojanovac on May 7, 1966, on the weekend of the Kentucky Derby. A devoted husband, dad, and grandpa, he was also a devoted caregiver for his wife in their later years.

Frank loved fishing, especially his trips to Alaska, and he attended every event of their children and grandchildren. Frank had many stories to tell but sadly, he was a horrible storyteller.

Frank is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Katherine; his children, James Harnisch and Kori (Paul) Simons; his grandchildren, Nicholas (Riley) Simons, Lillie Simons, Maggie Simons; his brother, John (Ann) Harnisch; his sisters-in-law, Judy Harnisch and Delores Harnisch; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mary Harnisch; his brothers, Charles Harnisch and Martin Harnisch.

There will be a visitation from 2 to 6pm on Sunday, March 15 at Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home, 500 W. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake. There will be a service at 5:30pm.

Interment in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery will be private.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org, in honor of his wife's current struggles with the disease.