Francis Joseph Sladicka

Francis Joseph Sladicka, 74, of South Abington Township, PA, passed away Sunday, December 6, 2020, at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, following a one-year bout with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) that he courageously fought by undergoing a stem cell transplant. He is survived by his loving wife of forty-one years, the former Patricia Ann Walski, who he always described as "amazing."

Born in Carbondale, PA, on February 13, 1946, Fran was the son of the late John and Kathryn Lopatofsky Sladicka. He graduated from Fell Township High School in Simpson, PA, in 1963 as salutatorian of his class. Following high school, Fran completed an undergraduate degree in math and education at Millersville University and two master's degrees in education and administration at East Stroudsburg University and the University of Scranton, respectively. Thirty-eight years of teaching and administrative positions in the North Penn School District in Lansdale, PA, as well as in the Abington Heights School District in Clarks Summit, PA, were much enjoyed. Many will fondly remember him as the Assistant Principal of Abington Heights Middle School, prior to his retirement in 2004.

Fran was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, whose grandchildren all wanted a seat on Papa's lap. He was so very proud of his entire family, especially his children and grandchildren. He was a promoter of connections with immediate and extended family and friends, highlighted with yearly gatherings at the Jersey Shore each July. Many other outdoor activities, especially hiking and skiing, were favored endeavors. Fran's strong faith was evident in the way he lived his life. He lived each day full of gratitude, kindness, and positivity; and he had a joy for life that was felt by all who knew him. For Dad, it was never about the destination; it was about absorbing all life has to offer, the experiences and those you share them with, and how you treat all the people you meet along the way.

Fran is survived by his son, Travis, and wife, Niherie, along with their children, Alina, Alyssa, and Travis Francis of Paoli, PA; his daughter, Tricia, and husband, Nick Freeman, along with their children, Natalie, Tyler Joseph, and Sienna of Brookfield, CT; and his daughter, Jenna, and husband, Michael Viola, of South Abington Township, PA. Also surviving are five siblings, Regina Keffer of Lansdale, PA; John and wife, Connie, of Lebanon, NJ; Sister Mary Magdalene Sladicka of Simpson, PA; Joseph Sladicka and wife, Claudia, of Honesdale, PA; and Reverend Phillip Sladicka, Queen of the Apostles Parish, Avoca, PA; plus thirteen nieces and nephews.

Fran was a longtime member of Our Lady of the Snows Parish, Clarks Summit, PA. Due to COVID, a small private family graveside service will be celebrated by Reverend Phillip Sladicka, brother of the deceased. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home and online condolences may be left for the family at https://www.lawrenceeyoungfuneralhome.com. A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Fran's name to the MDS Foundation (https://www.mds-foundation.org/donate) or to Sister Mary Magdalene Sladicka, C.H., Mater Dei Hermitage, 713 Morse Avenue, Simpson, PA 18407.