Truly a one off, last of the three, sad days, we all have so many memories of when we were all young, picnics at Clumber Park, bonfire nights, Christmas, god bless you Uncle Frank
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Franc Zimšek (9 Jan 1924 - 19 Feb 2018)
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In loving memory of Franc Zimšek
Our Dad was born in Slovenia (which was then part of Yugoslavia) , one of 7 siblings growing up in Vrhovo village. As a teenager, he was forcibly conscripted in to the German Army in WW2, escaped twice, eventually surrendered to the Allies and ended up serving in the RAF in Italy, and then settled in England. He met Mum in Nottingham, where he set up as a painter and decorator. They married, and then bought the house in Thorneywood that would be the family home for the rest of their lives.
Much loved Dad , 'Dedek' to six grandchildren, Uncle to many nephews and nieces in Slovenia, he was a one-off, always there to support his family and friends. Single-minded and self sufficient , motivated by a powerful work ethic, he carried on working until he was 88 - still climbing up ladders at that age.
Dad survived our Mum by nearly 4 years, seemingly set to live forever. He developed a mild form of dementia, very little short-term memory retention but a crystal clear recollection of events from 80 years ago, and he remained quick-witted and alert throughout his later years.
In January this year, though, he contracted pneumonia; it seemed a minor miracle and it was a testament to his strength and resolve that he pulled through and beat it off twice in one month, but he was weakened by it and finally left us, passing away peacefully on the morning of 19th February 2018.
Rest In Peace , all our love
Dan and Rezi Zimšek
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Offline donation: donated in memory of Franc
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I have said in the past Franc is a lion of a man. I remember his stories about selling shoes and endless train and on-foot journeys, about the effect of war on his life. Stuff he took on the chin, but which is hard for us to even imagine.
Then coming to England, creating a new life with June, having you two, building houses, naming roads after his family and leaving a real lasting legacy.
I also remember the smaller stuff. Leaving sausage and bread every Saturday morning. Looking after his family and keeping you all close. His lovely little van parked up in the Co-op car park.
I remember his smiling mischievous eyes. He was clearly especially happy when back in Slovenia, which I was actually quite moved to see.
I like that he had a bit of the devil in him – who could tell him not to throw all those paint cans on his always exciting and eventful November bonfire? Blasting all the kids backwards off the wall? You bet!
Stubborn too – taking the top storey off his house was Franc’s perfect solution despite any evidence to the contrary.
More than anything, I remember Franc as a strong man. A reliable man. A man who was always impressive, and who must have been quite the presence in his younger days. Respect to Franc, Martin x
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Beautiful words, thanks Martin. The paint cans made bonfire night special :)
is attending the funeral and the reception
donated £50 in memory of Franc
R.I.P Uncle Frank . Have lots of happy memories of times past.
Lou & Julie
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thanks both, and yes, lots of good memories! Dan
donated £30 in memory of Franc
R.I.P Franc. You and June have left a wonderful dynasty behind you.
Love from Stan, Maura, Adam and Eileen.
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thanks all, truly appreciated Dan
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Lovely week in Slovenia
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Thank you for letting us share in a wonderful hoilday. We both have very found memories of spending time with the extended Zimsek family and really enjoyed the amazing hospitality of your family, and of course getting to know your mum and dad a little bit more. Mo & Jerry
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Too much wine, too much food , too much hospitality , too much beautiful countryside and far too many hills :) Thanks both!
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Lovely week in Slovenia
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