Frank Ronald Dudek

Frank Ronald Dudek (Frankie to those who knew and loved him) was born to Mildred and Frank Dudek on November 26, 1952, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The youngest of three siblings and the only boy, he was the apple of his mother's eye, and had a smile and laugh that could light up any room.

Frankie attended Kings Canyon Middle School, Roosevelt High School, and went on to Fresno State University. He worked for Western Airlines in the San Francisco Bay Area, and then Delta Airlines in Florida.

Frankie loved his country, and lived all over the land that he loved. He made homes in Milwaukee, Fresno, San Mateo, Tampa, and most recently, in Fernley, Nevada, just outside of Reno. Frankie had a beautiful acreage in Fernley, where he enjoyed finding used items and giving them new life, and playing with his dogs, Chloe and Buddy. While Buddy was a new addition to the family, Chloe had been his long-time companion, accompanying him everywhere he went, even across the Country. Frankie had several hobbies: he loved working on his house, acreage, cars, or anything mechanical.

Frankie loved those close to him, and befriended every person he met. He always made time for a “ ‘moke,” a coffee, and “philosophizing” with family and friends. At times, Frankie found himself on new adventures and detours in life however, he never wavered in his Catholic faith and Christ never left Frankie’s side.

Ten years ago Frankie found AA. He was a true believer in the Christ-based twelve-step program, and dedicated himself to his own sobriety, as well as counseling others on their path. Frankie was generous with himself and his time. He mentored many individuals during his years with the AA program; countless people credit Frankie with giving them their own lives back from addiction.

Frankie suddenly and unexpectedly left this world on December 14, 2023. He is preceded in death by the love of his life Velma Dudek, his mother Mildred, and his father Frank. He is survived by his daughter Nichole Mason, his sisters Patsy (Jim) Bertram, and Bonnie (Larry) Muzny, as well as nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

As Frankie takes his next steps with Christ, Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 6:30 pm in the Oak Room at Stephens and Bean Chapel and a Mass will be held in Frankie's honor on January 5, 2024, at 9:00AM, at St. John’s Cathedral in Fresno, California, interment will follow St. Peter’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to:

Fresno AA Central Office

In Memory of Frank Dudek

3636 N First St., Suite 128

Fresno, CA 93726

Or online at fresnoaa.org