Frank Grcar passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on April 17, 2025. He was 85.
Born in Moravče, Slovenia, on May 14, 1939, Frank’s life was defined by courage, hard work and deep devotion to his family. At just 16 years old, he left Slovenia on foot with four of his friends, making the long journey to Austria. He spent two years as a refugee before his father sent for him to come to the United States in 1957 — a new beginning that would shape the rest of his life.
Frank began his career as a machinist but, ever resourceful, claimed cabinet-making skills to join the Carpenters’ Union. It turned out to be a perfect fit. Frank became a master carpenter and later owned his own construction company as well as a member of the pensioners group. Frank was one of the group that started and helped build Slovenska Pristava in Geneva and, on any drive, Frank loved to point out all the buildings around Cleveland that he helped build.
Frank served in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1964, and shortly after returning, he married the love of his life, Frida Rantasa, in May of 1964. Together they built a life filled with family, tradition and laughter.
Frank was a man of many passions: fishing, playing bocce ball, tending his abundant garden, trying his luck with scratch-offs and playing accordion — completely self-taught. He also had a legendary reluctance to turn on the air conditioning. His catchphrase, “It is what it is,” was a staple at every family party that he hosted.
Frank was fortunate that most of his family remained in Northeast Ohio. That enabled him to remain involved in their lives.
Frank is survived by his sons, Frank Grcar (Karen) and Daniel Grcar (Christine); daughters, Denise Grcar, Nadine Zagar (Greg), Stacy Langdon (Dennis), Sally Fuller (Rob) and Cynthia Grcar; his brother, Joseph Grcar; and sister Maria Frank. He was a proud grandfather to Allison Grcar, Melissa Sulzer (Ryan), Nick Grcar, Ashland Stokes, Nicole Grcar, Daniel Grcar Jr., Seth Grcar, Olivia Grcar, Hope Zagar, Luke Zagar, Max Langdon, Zak Langdon, Nathan Fuller and Emma Fuller. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Stephen, Rosalie, Harper, Noah and Daisy.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frida (née Rantasa) Grcar; his parents, Frank and Francis (née Bosič); and his sister Tina Grcar.
Updated service information will be provided in the obituary on our website at www.burrservice.com.
Frank’s legacy is one of perseverance, craftsmanship, and unwavering love for family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the organization of your choice in Frank’s memory.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.
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