Daniel J. "Frank" Baxa

Daniel Joseph Baxa was born to Leonard J. & Marvel A. (Jansky) Baxa on August 22, 1954 at Friend, Nebraska. He passed away November 4, 2024 at his home near Tobias, Nebraska at the age of 70 years, 2 months, and 13 days. He was one of 10 children born in the family. Frank, as he was affectionately known, was raised on the family farm near Tobias, Nebraska. He received his nickname ‘Frank’ from his high school football teammates in reference to Frank Solich because of the way he ran when he played football. He didn’t hold anything back. He graduated from Meridian High School in 1972. In his younger years, he worked for Dan Drees and other area farmers. He spent some time on the road with his older brother, Allen, painting area grain elevators. He also worked at Peterson Manufacturing (American Tool) for several years, before taking employment with Fillmore County Roads Department. He retired from Fillmore County Roads in 2019. In retirement, he still enjoyed helping area farmers when able, piddling at “The Ranch,” north of Tobias, and attending grandchildren’s events. Frank was married to Mary Roesler on August 23, 1980. Two daughters were born to this union: Melissa Dawn in 1983 and Melinda Sue in 1986. Frank & Mary lived in Daykin for a short while before moving to a farm house near Saline Center in 1984. Frank & Mary were divorced in 1998. Frank married Julie Erks in 2004 before divorcing in 2021. Frank enjoyed the simple things in life. He was an avid Nebraska Football fan, enjoyed tractor drives, mowing, farming, and spending time at “The Ranch.” He especially enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a member of the Tobias Sons of the American Legion. Frank was preceded in death by his brother Allen; parents Leonard and Marvel; brother-in-law Wayne Novotny; and nephew Reis Blobaum. He is survived by his daughters Melissa Baxa & Jason Delay and Mindy Baxa & Dustin Allen; grandchildren Xander Baxa-Delay, Aspen Baxa-Delay, Sarina Lavilay, Javon Allen, Somsai Baxa, and Sawyer Lavilay; siblings Jim & Peggy Baxa, Steve Baxa, Ralph & Jan Baxa, John & Betty Baxa, Kevin & Dawn Baxa, Mike & Lisa Baxa, Connie Novotny, and Sandy Vandenhoek; and many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial for Frank was held on Friday, November 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Tobias, Nebraska. Father Robert Barnhill presided over the Mass. Judy Rada accompanied the congregation in the singing of “Amazing Grace,” “Here I Am Lord,” and “How Great Thou Art.” The recorded selection “The Old Rugged Cross” sung by Johnny Cash was played as the recessional song. Pallbearers include Somsai Baxa, Xander Baxa-Delay, Jason Delay, Matt Baxa, Richard Drake, Brant Schwisow, Dwaine Honea, and Dustin Allen. Honorary Pallbearers included Apsen Baxa-Delay, Sawyer Lavilay, Sarina Lavilay, and Javon Allen. A Graveside Service was held in the Tobias Cemetery. Farmer & Son Funeral Home was in care of the arrangements and online condolences can be left at www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com Memorials are suggested to the family.

Tributes

Daniel J. "Frank" Baxa

August 22, 1954 - November 4, 2024