Frank R. Cernugel

Frank R. Cernugel

“Franko”

Age 70 of Joliet, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 1, 2021 at Amita Health Saint Joseph Medical Center.

Born August 8, 1950 in Joliet, Frank was the son of Frank J. and Lois (Warsaw) Cernugel. He was raised and educated in Joliet and graduated from Joliet West High School with the class of 1968. Following high school Frank was drafted into the United States Army Reserves. He worked for Plainfield Tool and Engineering for 30 years until retiring. Frank was an accomplished musician and began playing at the age of 10. He played a variety of instruments and all different genres of music. Frank played with many local bands and spent many hours listening to local talent. On his list of accomplishments, he was a member of the “Kenosha Kickers” featured in the movie Home Alone. Frank was a devoted Catholic and longtime parishioner of St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Crest Hill. He was an active member of the Joliet Moose, the Croatian Culture Club and St. Joseph’s Senior Citizen Association.

He is survived by his loving sister: JoAnn (Harry) Burkhart; nieces: Julie (Justin) Mescher and Laura (Jason) Wong; nephew: Justin Burkhart; great nieces: Aleigha, Layla and Kaida, and great nephews: Griffen, Trent and Ty. Frank was also blessed with many caring friends including Rich Shure, Rita Miller, Don Govoni and Mark, Judy and Gypsie Fehrenbacker. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but especially by his beloved Jeannie Joiner.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents: Frank and Lois.

Family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday, January 7, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. until time of closing prayers beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet. The funeral will then process to St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Crest Hill for an 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow and Frank will be laid to rest with his parents in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Romeoville. Due to COVID-19 restrictions masks and social distancing is required. A capacity of 25 guests may be accommodated at a time for the visitation and a total of 50 guests are allowed to attend mass. Anyone wishing to attend mass is encouraged to RSVP with the church.