Frank John Osimitz

Memorial Suggestions

Frank has requested an intimate family gathering in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, a location that holds deep significance for him and where he has created many cherished memories with his loved ones.

Frank passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on November 1, 2024, at 81. He was born in Racine, Wisconsin, on March 22, 1943, to Florence (Mielke) and Frank Osimitz. Frank’s early life was a testament to his resilience. He entered this world three months premature and weighed less than three pounds. His survival was not just a medical miracle but a source of inspiration for all who knew him.

He grew into a fun-loving child who spent his summers on the shores of Big Arbor Vitae Lake in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. The lake, with its calming waters and vibrant life, was not just a playground but also a teacher. Here, he developed a fascination with the history and anthropological study of the local Indigenous tribes, a passion that would shape his future.

As his passion for education flourished, so did his desire for knowledge. A 1962 graduate of William Horlick High School, he obtained his bachelor’s degree in education from Carthage College in 1966, landing his first teaching position as a history teacher at McKinley Middle School within the Racine Unified School District. Encouraged to embrace more challenging roles, Frank’s commitment to lifelong learning became apparent when he earned his master’s in science from UW Milwaukee in 1972, marking the beginning of his career as a school principal. In 1988, he achieved his PhD in Education from Nova Southeastern University and took on the role of assistant superintendent at RUSD, retiring in 1998 after 32 years of dedicated service. In 1999, his high school alma mater honored him as a distinction graduate. However, retirement was short-lived as he was called back into action in 2002, serving as interim principal at Fratt School. During this period, the devoted educator was invited to the People’s Republic of China in 2004 and 2005 to guest lecture on the studies of Indigenous peoples of North America at Tsinghua University. Upon his return, he again stepped in as interim principal at St. John Nepomuk School, ultimately retiring a few years later. Yet, any true educator understands that sharing knowledge is at the core of teaching. Frank’s journey would come full circle as he embraced his last and most special teaching role at John Paul II Academy as a middle school history teacher, where he had the opportunity to work alongside his grandchildren, who were then his students. Frank concluded his remarkable career in 2014, embodying a lifelong dedication to learning and teaching.

Frank married his high school sweetheart, Karen Hurbis, in 1968 at St. Rose Parish. His love for his family was unwavering. He was a devoted father to Kimberlee and his son-in-law, Eric Christensen. Frank took great pride in being a grandfather and was the biggest sports fan of his grandchildren: Henry, Frank, and Gracie. He loved to travel and was talented at turning every trip into an educational experience.

Frank dedicated over forty years to giving back to the city of Racine as a member of the Kiwanis Club of West Racine. During this time, he held numerous leadership positions, including serving as president in 1992. Due to his empathy, leadership, and commitment to social responsibilities, he received a Hixson Fellowship to recognize his dedication to the city’s youth.

Frank was preceded in death by two older brothers who tragically passed away in infancy, as well as his father, Frank, and his mother, Florence. He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his daughter, Kimberlee (Eric) Christensen; several cousins; and his cherished grandchildren, Henry (Alei Mandli), Frankie, and Grace Florence. While he will be deeply missed, the love he shared will forever remain in our memories. We sincerely thank the Aurora Medical Center Mount Pleasant, the Home Hospice Care Unit, and the Zilber Family Hospice staff for their exceptional care. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have reached out to us during this difficult time. Your support and understanding mean the world to us.

Frank has requested an intimate family gathering in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, a location that holds deep significance for him and where he has created many cherished memories with his loved ones.