Frank Zimnicki

Frank Zimnicki, a deeply loved father, spouse, and business owner, passed away on January 14, 2025, at Banner University Hospital in Tucson, Arizona. He faced complications following surgery and ultimately could not recover. Born on January 13, 1948, in Poznan, Poland, Frank's life was defined by adventure, ingenuity, resilience, humor, and a deep love for the people around him. He embraced challenges with determination and found joy in sharing his passions with others, always making the world a little brighter through his energy and spirit.

For Frank, life was best experienced in motion—cruising through open roads on his bike, uncovering new sights, and sharing his discoveries with those he loved. His love for adventure and his willingness to embrace challenges shaped his life and deeply influenced his children, Thea and Ted. He created lasting memories with them, from biking all over the world to teaching them how to navigate the open road. Frank’s boundless curiosity and hands-on approach to life made him an inspiring teacher, always eager to share his knowledge and encourage those around him to push beyond their comfort zones.

Frank immigrated from Poland to Montreal, Quebec, as a young teenager with his two sisters, Esther and Rose, and his mother, Rachel. Montreal quickly became a cherished home where he built his business, Peel Cycle, which he grew to be the largest independent bicycle and outdoor store in the province. He loved introducing people to the joys of cycling, organizing tours through southern Quebec and New England that combined bicycling through nature with excursions to local theaters. It was during one of these tours that he met Elizabeth, with whom he built a family and raised Thea and Ted.

The family later moved from Montreal to Connecticut, embracing new opportunities. Though he built a new life in the U.S., Frank always remained deeply connected to his Canadian roots, maintaining strong ties to the people and places that shaped him. This connection was evident in traditions he carried forward, the friendships he nurtured, and the stories he loved to tell.

Frank took immense pride in the lives his children built for themselves and embraced the people they chose to share them with. He welcomed Thea’s husband, Rodrigo, and Ted’s wife, Miriam, into the family with warmth and an open heart.

Later in life, Frank found his way to Sahuarita, Arizona, where he shared a deeply fulfilling and joyous partnership with Janelle. Their time together was filled with affection, caring, and a deep sense of connection.

Frank had a sharp wit and a knack for storytelling, his blue eyes twinkling with mischief as he recounted tales from his life. His humor and vivid narratives brought people together, ensuring that his presence would be remembered long after the stories were told.

He is survived by his children Thea and Ted, Elizabeth, Janelle, his sisters Esther and Rose, his many nieces and nephews, and his newborn grandson, Logan. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, the stories he shared, and the love he so freely gave.