Franklin Pavwoski

Franklin was born on November 8th, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Leo Pavwoski and Emily Pinsonnault. He was the youngest of three, having two older brothers, Leonard (Lenny) and Robert (Bob). The family lived on Winona Lane, where Frank attended nearby Forest Home Grade School. (It was here, at the precious age of 13, that Frank first laid eyes on his future bride. He had no idea that he would eventually walk down the aisle with Joyce and spent 68 years of matrimony together.) His education continued at South Division High School, where Franklin discovered his love for football and wrestling, earning several varsity letters. As his skills developed, he also took on the role of team manager.

In 1953, Frank enlisted into the United States Army where he spent two years in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He was trained as a Culinary Specialist where he recalled having a rapid increase in popularity with his fellow recruits. Everyone wanted to be friendly with the cook! 

Frank returned home to Wisconsin in February of 1955. A few short months later, on June 25th, he married his childhood sweetheart, Joyce Grablewski. The couple lived in Milwaukee briefly, until they purchased their dream home in Menomonee Falls, WI, in 1961. This three-bedroom, two-bath home on one acre of land was an absolute dream come true for both of them. It was here that they raised and nurtured their three children Mark, Nadine and Denise.

To support his growing family, Frank worked at AT&T as a Technical Equipment Manager for 41 years, retiring in 1997. Earlier in his career, Frank also worked with his brother, Leonard, at his Texaco gas station. For many years, Frank could also be found in the local butcher shop. He and Joyce had quietly desired to own and run this business some day, but Frank wasn't able to commit the time needed to complete the apprenticeship. So, alternatively, he worked as a meat cutter every Saturday morning, bringing home his paycheck in the form of fresh meat for his family. He worked long hours, and fed his family well.

Shortly after becoming empty nesters, Frank was transferred by AT&T to Buffalo Grove, Illinois, where he and Joyce lived the next 20 years together. They loved experiencing the culture and arts of Chicago, as well as the abundant nature preserves Illinois had to offer. Post retirement, the couple eventually returned to Lake Mills, Wisconsin, so they could be closer to family.

Frank was an active member of the Elk's Club and the American Legion where he and Joyce met many of their life-long friends. They spent countless evenings on the dance floor together. Frank also enjoyed fishing for Salmon and Rainbow Trout on Lake Michigan. This generally included his children, which consequently involved thorough training and patience. Fortunately, Frank possessed an abundance of both. Over the years, he and Joyce also developed a love and skill for landscaping. Their properties reflected their passion. 

Franklin passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on June 5, 2026. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Joyce Pavwoski, brothers Leonard (Santa) Pavwoski, Robert (Del) Pavwoski, son-in-law Tom Balestrieri and niece Joanne Pinsonnault. Frank is survived by his children Mark (Jennifer) Pavwoski, Nadine Balestrieri and Denise (Tim) Ehr. Brother-in-laws Ronald (Judy) Grablewski, and Gary (Diane) Mack He was the precious grandfather to Cassandra, John, Shalin, Lisa, Anthony (Shalean), Jarae, Jessica (Matt), Sadie (Dakota), Rebecca, Lauren and Elijah. Great Grandfather to Marlee, Esrah, Oaklen, Jacie, Holly, Elliot, Amelia, Maeva, Josiah and Raimah. Also survived by many loving and cherished nieces and nephews: Kathleen, David, Susan, Linda, Dwayne, Tonya, Laura and Heather.

The Celebration of Life begins at 10:00 am on Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery & Mausoleum, 3801 W. Morgan Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53221.