Frank Lynn Bartko

Frank Lynn Bartko, 84, of Chino, California, died from a massive heart attack on the morning of Monday, May 3, 2021.

Frank was born on August 17, 1936 in Los Angeles, California to Frank and Marie Bartko. He was the older brother of 3 sisters: Rosemarie, Beverly and Jeanne. His natural ambition was apparent in his youth with a newspaper route at age 11 and enlisting to serve in the US Army in 1954, at age 17. He was a paratrooper and in the honor guard at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. When he had leave, he traveled by hitchhiking to visit families of his military buddies and sweethearts.

Frank had a zest for life. He was a lively personality that liked to joke around and have a good time. After his military service, he modeled in New York and then returned to California to attend college. He worked at Taco Treat, and then succeeded in acquiring 5 Taco Bell stores over his 30 years as a Taco Bell franchisee.

Frank was married to Gloria Medina from 1973-1985. During those 12 years, he became the hardworking, fun dad of 4 beautiful daughters: Francesca, Natasha, Alicia and ZsaZsa. He was the loving grandfather of 5 grandchildren: Alexis, Geovanni, Sophia, Xander, and Ava; and 1 great grandson Bellomy.

Frank's values of family, education, and travel were clear by the way he lived. He continuously sought educational opportunities for himself and encouraged his daughters to do the same. He introduced travel to them at an early age. He spent time regularly traveling with his special lady Corazon and sister Jeanne outside the country in his later years. Even during retirement, Frank pursued a job with an airline and as a real estate agent. His unfailing ambitious drive and optimism will always be his legacy to us.

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.


Memorial donations may be given in Frank's honor to:
Boys and Girls Club of Whittier An organization for youth that emphasizes Academic Success; the development of good Character & Citizenship; and the formation of Healthy Lifestyles.
https://www.bgcw.org/memorial-page/