Francis John Opielski

Francis J. Opielski “Frank”, Age 90, long-time resident of King of Prussia, PA passed away on February 20, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.  

Survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Wanda (nee Wlazelek); his loving children Kenneth

(Sheldon), Michael (Susan), Mark and Brian (Frieda); and his cherished grandchildren Robert, Luke, Catherine, Sarah, Nicolas and Alex.  Beloved son of the late Martha (nee Grabowski) and Frank Opielski.

Born on February 27, 1931 in West Conshohocken, Frank attended St. Mary’s Parochial Grade School and St. Matthew’s High School where he was an altar server and played baseball and football.  In 1950 he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he became a decorated B-29 Flight Engineer achieving the rank of Airman First Class. He flew countless hours and 25 missions over enemy territory during the Korean War.  Honors included the Air Medal and the Bronze Star for various phases of combat operation; the Korean Medal with two campaign stars; the United Nations Medal; and most recently the Korean Medal of Peace which was awarded to him on behalf of the Korean government.  His crew was also awarded the “Crew of the month distinction”.  After being honorably discharged from the USAF, he graduated from Villanova University in 1958 majoring in Economics. Throughout his career in sales, Frank was employed by the 3M Company, SPS Technologies and the Borroughs Corporation.

Frank was a devout Catholic and a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Swedesburg, PA where he attended Friday and Sunday Masses on a weekly basis.  He was a member of the Holy Name Society and St. Cecilia's Choir.  He served as president of both organizations.  For decades he volunteered at the annual Parish Festival.  He honed his skills making some of the best waffles and ice cream with friends and family by his side. 

Frank was an avid reader who also enjoyed playing golf and watching his favorite Phillies, Eagles and Villanova Wildcats.  He enjoyed golfing with the friends he made as a member of Phoenixville and Glenhardie Country Clubs.  He took great pride in his home and could always be seen working in his yard.  The township awarded his efforts with several Home and Garden Beautification awards . Frank and his wife Wanda loved to polka dance.  On the dance floor they had no equal as their smooth style won several awards including a week long trip to Ocean City, NJ and the family’s first color TV.  Together they had a passion for travel and had the opportunity to visit 29 countries.  In addition, the cruises with close family and friends formed some of their “good old days” together.

Frank took much pride in his childrens’ and grandchildrens’ interests over the years.  Supporting them added richness and pleasure to his life, whether attending gymnastic competitions, dance recitals, baseball games, soccer matches, flag football games, marching band performances or concerts.  He loved each one of them dearly.

Frank had many interests, but his love of God and family is what he treasured most.  

He will be forever missed.  

Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation on Saturday, February 26th, 9:00 - 9:50 AM, immediately followed by Mass at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 120 Jefferson Street, Swedesburg, PA.  19405.  Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery immediately after Mass.   

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Frank’s memory can be made to Sacred Heart Parish, 120 Jefferson Street, Swedesburg, PA.  19405. Arrangements are by The Bernard S. Gutkowski Funeral Home, Swedesburg, 610-275-6385, Keith J. Murphy, F.D.

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