Frank Leonard “Chief” Kurek, 73, of Hopwood, passed away on March 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 15, 1952, he spent 40 years working as a coal miner. A lifetime member of the Hutchinson Sportsman Club and a proud member of the Catholic War Veterans, Chief was known as a coach, chef, baker, devoted father to many, and a steadfast friend to all. He took great joy in baking the best treats, cheering loudly for the Steelers with a little sip in hand, and making everyone who entered his home feel like family.
Chief loved to cook and bake, and after retiring he cherished traveling with his family and spoiling his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Joy Kurek; sons Jason Kurek (fiancée Allison) and Brian Frank Kurek (wife Emilie); daughter Courtney Schiffbauer; and granddaughters Corrine Elizabeth Kurek and Willow Christine Kurek. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank J. Kurek and Eleanor Krizner Kurek, and his son-in-law Matt Schiffbauer.
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