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Posted Sep 23, 2026 | 8:05 AM
With broken hearts, we share the loss of Frank Walter Zielony on September 20, 2026. Frank was a devoted husband to Karen Zielony; loving brother to Jean Burgess; dedicated father to Nicole (Robert) Montgomery and Lisa (Anthony) Meo; brother-in-law to Roy (Michelle) Chipping; adoring Papa to Theo, Violet and Bianca; proud Uncle to Amanda (Matt), Lucas and Gwen Pressey, Ryan and Dylan Chipping; dependable and valued friend to so many. Frank is now reunited with his parents, Walter and Aniela Zielony, his parents-in-law, Valerie and Terry Chipping, his brother, Caz Zielony, and his son, Steven Zielony.
Dad was born in Gora, Poland and moved to Canada with his family in 1960, arriving on the Stefan Batory ship when he was 10 years old. He grew up fast and learned a lot about himself in the process. He learned that he no longer enjoyed milk (as it did not come fresh from the cow) and that he enjoyed taking on more of a protective role with his younger siblings; especially his sister Jean. Dad’s strong work ethic pulled him to gain experience in several areas, with the hope of finding a career he could enjoy for years to come. He began working in factories, learning trades and cab driving (where he eventually met Mom) and ultimately decided on welding, with the goal of one day owning his own business (Hilltop Ornamental Iron Works).
As a welder, Dad was so talented and creative. He designed and welded beautiful wrought iron bed frames for both of his “sunshine” girls and surprised each of us on our birthdays. Driving through Tweed, we always slowed down to admire the houses with the beautiful hand railings he made and installed, and the Christmas displays he made for the Tweed Park. He made us SO proud.
Our Dad was a complex soul. He was strong willed and inflexible. He was fearless. He was a protector. He was a leader; never a follower. He accomplished anything he set his mind to. He was tough as nails on the outside but warm as “sunshine” on the inside. He loved his family with every ounce of his heart.
Dad absolutely adored his Grandchildren. They brought him the most joy in all that he experienced during his lifetime. Just hearing their names or little voices would make him tear up instantly… and reach for the fruit snacks he held for them in his coat pocket.
Dad’s favourite hobbies included riding on his Harley Davidson, hunting and fishing. He loved to share these experiences with his favourite people and encouraged any outdoor activity (that did not include a ball/puck, a bat or a hockey stick). He supported our curiosity and interests in sports as kids but would much rather steer us in the direction of self-defense or teach us the skills required to hunt, fish or ride.
The many years we lived on Sunsmile Lane gave us beautiful memories of boat rides on the river, motorcycle rides and campfires with Dad. Even though he hated the cold, he was thrilled to make an ice rink for us in the winter, as long as we were spending time outdoors and “breathing in the fresh air.” He loved watching western movies, nature shows and classic sitcoms like All in the Family and Mash – but he only ever sat through a few minutes before falling asleep after a long day at his welding shop. He worked hard to give us the best opportunities that life had to offer, encouraged us to travel and to “learn something new and laugh every day.”
To celebrate Dad’s life, we invite you to join us on September 27, 2026, at Burke Funeral Home (613-968-6968), 150 Church Street, Belleville for a brief ceremony, beginning at 12:00 p.m. and a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you plant a fruit tree in memory of our Dad or consider donating to your local conservation area.
Online condolences at www.BurkeFuneral.ca