Frank G. Chlipala
Frank G. Chlipala, affectionately known as Coach, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2023, in Sullivan, MO. Born on May 30, 1942, in Chicago, IL, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, and coach, whose kindness, friendliness, and passion for life will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Growing up in Chicago, Frank attended local schools and graduated from Chicago Vocational School in 1960. He went on to attend Central Missouri State University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Education in 1964 and later his Master's Degree in 1967. Frank's dedication to education and athletics would define his career and impact countless lives along the way.
Frank married the love of his life, Jaquelyn Adamick, on June 19, 1965, in Rolla, MO, after meeting her in college. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Michael and Theresa, who brought joy and love into their lives. Frank's devotion to his family was evident in everything he did, and his legacy lives on through them.
Beginning his teaching career in Nevada, MO, in 1964, Frank taught elementary physical education and served as an assistant basketball and football coach. After obtaining his Master's degree, he became a Physical Education instructor and baseball coach at CMSU. Frank eventually moved to St. Louis, where he taught Driver's Ed and elementary PE at Ritenour and McClure schools. In 1970, Frank and his family settled in Sullivan, where he would continue to shape young minds and bodies through teaching and coaching.
Throughout his life, Frank was a hard worker, often taking on summer jobs like painting houses and cutting lumber when he wasn't teaching. His dedication extended beyond the classroom, as he played an active role in his community. As a member of the Sullivan Kiwanis Club, Frank was proud to have helped develop the first "kiddie" park near the pool. He also promoted the construction of outdoor basketball and tennis courts near the Legion Baseball field while serving as a member of the Parks and Recreation Board. Frank's community involvement also included membership in the Knights of Columbus, Eagles, and St. Anthony's Catholic Church.
Living near the golf course, Frank loved to golf in his free time, and he could often be found walking his "grand dogs" around the neighborhood. Despite his family's playful objections, Frank enjoyed listening to old polka music, and he and Jackie shared many happy memories dancing together in their younger years. As "Pop" to his grandchildren, Frank treasured the time spent with them, especially attending their games. At Pop's house, the kids would come over often for a visit, a treat from Grandma Jackie, and the fridge always stocked with cold soda and other "off-limits" beverages, creating fond memories for the entire family.
Frank is survived by his wife Jackie; his children: Michael Chlipala and wife Maureen and Theresa McKinney and husband Dino all of Sullivan, MO; six grandchildren: Ryan McKinney, Cody McKinney, Melissa Reed, Tina Turner and husband, Matt, Nicole Shelton, and Michael and Kacee Shelton all of Sullivan; nine great-grandchildren: Dalton, Anthony, Kaden, Drew, Jenna, Mia, Kaylee, Jade, and Everett; a brother, Robert Chlipala and wife Diane of Bellevue, WA; his mother-in-law, Freda Brown; two sisters-in- law, Kathy Pompe and husband, Bruce of St. Louis, MO and Angie Appleby and husband Bob of Loma Linda, MO; a brother-in-law, Bob Choun of Kansas City, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Jean Chlipala; his sister, Joan Steele; his stepfather-in-law, Bill Brown; and his father-in-law, Henry Adamick.
A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 AM, Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Sullivan. Burial will be at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Sullivan.
Visitation will be 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Wednesday, prior to Mass at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.
Memorials in Frank’s memory may be made to St. Anthony Catholic School and/or masses given for Frank to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.
Friends may send their online condolences to Frank’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
All arrangements under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.