Francis Paul Fabijanic

Frank was born in New York and grew up in North Bergen and Morristown, New Jersey. He spent many childhood summers in Elgin, North Dakota on his grandparents’ farm, where he developed a love for gardening. College brought him back to the northern plains, to North Dakota State University (NDSU) in Fargo, where he was a remarkable leader and inspiration to many on campus.

After college, Frank returned to New Jersey for about 10 years before ultimately settling in Orlando, Florida in 1996—where he found his true home. A lifelong adventurer, Frank had a deep love for travel and explored much of the world. Starting out at Pan American Airways (which eventually was acquired by Delta) Frank devoted 39 years of loyal service to Delta Airlines' Flight Safety team, building enduring friendships and a remarkable career in the airline industry. His passion for aviation even led him to pursue flight lessons toward becoming a pilot.

Frank also especially enjoyed Disney cruises and visiting Orlando's many theme parks, with a special affection for Walt Disney World. He even worked part-time for several years as a Disney character and in the famed Disney parades on days when he wasn’t flying.

Frank loved tending to his garden and koi pond, relaxing poolside under the Florida sun, and spending quality time with his beloved cat, Harbor.

An avid music lover, Frank sang bass in a cathedral choir and had a great appreciation for the arts, particularly later in life. One of his most cherished experiences was traveling to Croatia to connect with his family's roots and partake in treasured family traditions. He also excelled in languages; especially Latin, Italian, French and even Croatian.

Frank is survived by his parents, Paul and Coralie Fabijanic of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; his siblings Chuck (Julie) Fabijanic of Fargo, ND; Paula (Mike) Vasey of Dublin, OH; and Kay (Doug) Fossum of Savage, MN; as well as nephew Charles PJ (Ming) Fabijanic and nieces Abigail Nunes, Julia Fabijanic, Katherine, Elizabeth and Cecilia Vasey, Leah Fossum, Anna (James) McLean, and Mara and Ella Fossum.

He was predeceased by his infant brother, Christopher Lee.

Frank leaves behind many long-term friendships and a loving extended family who will remember him for his warm heart, adventurous spirit, and the joy he brought to every gathering. His legacy of kindness, loyalty, and laughter will be cherished by all who knew him.

Services will be held as follows:

• A private family viewing will take place on May 14 from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home in Winter Park, FL followed by a public viewing from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on May 15 at 10:00 a.m. at St. James Cathedral in downtown Orlando, where Frank joyfully dedicated more than 10 years to the cathedral’s music ministry.

The family kindly asks that memorial donations may be made in Frank’s memory to one of his greatest passions, the FarmHouse Fraternity at NDSU.  Click for Link   Add note: Frank’s legacy

Or checks to: FarmHouse Fraternity, 1144 College Street North, Fargo, ND 58102 Memo line: Frank’s legacy