Frank Thomas Malec, Jr., 77, of Proctor, Minnesota, passed away suddenly and peacefully at his home on January 30, 2026.

Born on March 31, 1948, in Duluth, MN, Frank was the beloved son of Frank and Peggy Malec. He graduated from Proctor High School in 1967 and soon after, proudly served his country with distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Frank dedicated 30 years of his career as a Welder Foreman for the Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Railroad before retiring. He was a passionate sports enthusiast and enjoyed bowling, softball, baseball, cribbage, billiards, and working the puzzles in the newspaper. Frank loved listening to music and was an avid supporter of all Minnesota sports teams.

Deeply involved in his community, Frank was a lifetime member of the Proctor Moose Lodge, as well as a member of the VFW and the American Legion Post 0071. He served as president of the Proctor Little League for many years and was the General Chairman for the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way, DM&IR Division, during his working years.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Donna Malec; his parents, Frank and Peggy Malec; his mother and father-in-law, Robert and Lillian Ulshafer; his brothers Jim (Maynard) Malec, Chuck Malec, and Carey Malec; in-laws Gary and Judy Burns, Milton and Roberta Zebott, Cindy Ulshafer, and Finley Stalvig; and nephews Sean Malec and Shawn Burr.

He is survived by his children, Kevin Malec and Kara (Bob) Clark; siblings Pat (Pete) Stephenson, Jason (Terri) Malec, and Jayne (Mike) Lowry; sister-in-law Cathy Malec; brothers-in-law Mike Ulshafer and Daryl Ulshafer; many cherished nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of friends and acquaintances.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at the Proctor Moose Lodge, 415 3rd Avenue, Proctor, MN. Military Honors will take place at 3:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor Frank by sharing memories and stories.

A private burial will follow at a later date. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Sunrise Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank’s name to the charity of choice.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to their relatives, friends, Sunrise Funeral Home, and all who were a part of Frank’s life for their love and support during this time.