Frank Perkosky

PERKOSKY, Frank, Jr., 88, Windber, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2018 at UPMC Montifiore, Pittsburgh, with his loving son Matthew by his side. Born Feb. 14, 1930 Wilbur, PA. Son of Frank, Sr. and Anna (Maluchnik) Perkosky. Preceded in death by parents, daughter Sheryl, sons Derek and Timothy, sister Frances Fielding and brothers Chester and Edward. Survived by his loving wife of over 60 years Shirley (Miller), son Matthew and brother Leonard all of Windber. Grandchildren Rodney, Cristine and Jimmy. Graduate of Windber Area High School in 1948. He then joined the US Army and was in the 82nd field artillery unit. Frank served in the Korean War. After 4 years in the Army he then joined the US Air Force and retired as a Tech Sergeant and a pilot survival gear specialist. He was in charge of all the pilot safety gear in his squadron. Frank also served in Vietnam and saw action in that war. Also while in Vietnam Frank came up with an idea to alter the visor on the fighter pilot’s helmets to increase their vision. This alteration helped save pilot’s lives. These helmets can be seen in the movie Top Gun. His base commander put in a worldwide order that all helmets be altered this way. He is also credited with testing and using Velcro instead of snaps and zippers on pilots flight suits and survival gear. After retirement from the Air Force in 1968 Frank joined the Laborers Union and retired after 20 years. He was a devoted fan of the Windber Rambler Football and Basketball teams along with the Steelers, Pirates and Penguins. Longtime member of the Windber American Legion Post 137, Polish Falcons, Polish Club and Slovak Club. Frank always had a story to tell, if you were willing to listen. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Frank enjoyed watching old western shows and movies. He also enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. He will be sadly missed. Franks many medical problems finally caught up to him and the Lord did not want him to suffer anymore and called him home. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm Tuesday at Meek & Dalla Valle Funeral Home Inc., Windber, where funeral will be held at 11 am. Wednesday. Rev. Valerie Conrad-Dembinsky officiating. Interment Richland Cemetery. Military graveside rites by Windber VFW Post 4795. www.meekfuneralhome.com

 

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