Frank A. Pajkurich, Sr.

It’s been said that you cannot cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water. Frank’s voyage through life embodies this sentiment. Born in Yugoslavia, he took to the seas at age 12, when his father found him a job aboard a vessel. By WWII, the sea would lead him to the Merchant Marines. And while he was on three separate ships that were sunk, it never dulled his spirit. When given the chance to join the US Army transporting troops, he signed right up. After the war he moved to Delran, and became a dredge boat captain. With a seemingly endless supply of energy, the long days at sea were not enough to wear him out. As such, he took it upon himself to borrow the dredging equipment, and excavate the area to make Lake Lonnie and Swedes Run Lake. Likewise, he could usually be found in his garden, where his own fertilizing recipe always produced the finest tomatoes and egg plants. And everyone was invited to enjoy. His home was so filled on Christmas Eve he would usually turn the Feast of the Seven Fishes into the Feast of the 700 Fishes. rnWhile attending a dance in the late 1940s, Frank met a young woman named Aurelia (nee Mahnich). He was able to win her over with his smile, and it would not be long until their 54 year marriage would begin. Before her passing in 1999, their lives were blessed by their son Frank, Jr. (Susan) of Erial, and their grandchildren: Daniel, Frank and Stacey. He is also survived by his nephew Tony, nieces Carol and Linda, and great-nephews Alex and Alan. rnCome celebrate 87 energetic years (10/3/1922-4/26/2010) Thursday from 10 AM at the Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside, where the service will be at 11. Interment St. Peter’s Cemetery, Riverside. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to Burlington County Veteran’s Services, PO Box 6000 Mt. Holly, NJ 08060-6000. rn