Frank J. Krhovsky MD

Dr. Frank J. Krhovsky, age 93, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday August 7, 2019. Dr. Krhovsky was born on Sept 4, 1925 in Ionia, MI son of the late John and Mary Krhovsky, both emigrated from Czechoslovakia.

Dr. Krhovsky graduated from St. Peter and Paul Academy in Ionia and matriculated into an Engineering program at Princeton University in 1943. His dreams of being an engineer were disrupted by the events of WWII which motivated him to join the Army. Dr. Krhovsky served with honor in the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 11th Airborne Division, a highly decorated unit that participated in many battles in the Pacific Theatre. He fought in the battle of Luzon and in the battle of Manila. He jumped with the 11th Airborne onto Tagaytay Ridge then raced to Manila covering 48 miles in two days ahead of the Japanese. The most notable engagement of this unit involved liberation of all 2,100 civilians of many nationalities held at the Los Banos prison camp in the Philippines. Against overwhelming odds, Dr. Krhovsky and 130 volunteers from the 11th Airborne executed a daring early morning jump from an altitude of 400ft that successfully freed all of the prisoners without a single casualty. Dr. Krhovsky was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry when he rescued under fire a buddy who was pinned down between two machine gun nests. He was also awarded the Purple Heart. Following the war he gave Algebra instructions in occupied Japan to American soldiers who hadn't finished high school. On discharge from the Army he attended Aquinas College (BS Biology) graduating in just three years. After earning a Master's of Science (Anatomy) from the University of Michigan, Dr. Krhovsky attended Marquette School of Medicine earning his MD in 1954. He completed his Anesthesia training at St Mary's Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI where he subsequently practiced Anesthesia for 42 years. He was active in the Kent County Medical Society, and a member of the Michigan State Medical Society.

Dr. Krhovsky had many interests and hobbies including golf, hunting and sport shooting. He was an active member of Kent County Conservation League, Safari Club International and Cascade Hills Country club. He was passionate about his family, his church and his country. He was happiest when surrounded by his family at dinner time. He was generous, good natured and always wore a smile. For him heroism was a way of life.

Dr. Krhovsky is survived by his loving wife of 39 years Adele; his son, David M. Krhovsky, MD and his wife Maureen (Howell); his daughter Barbara and her husband Harold Park, 6 grand children, Valerie, Michele and Kelly Park, Dave Jr. (Jennifer), Mark (Hailey) Krhovsky, Mary (Brian) Hannon, and 3 great-grandchildren, Luke, Noah and Esther Rose.  In spirit he is survived by his former patients, their families, and all whom he served throughout his life.

The Mass of Christian burial will be held on Tuesday August 13th at 10:30am at St. Stephen Catholic Church in East Grand Rapids. Officiating will be Fr. Scott Nolan pastor. Interment will be at Graceland Memorial Park and Mausoleum. Friends may call at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Monday Aug 12th 2-4pm and 6-8pm with a Rosary to be said at 8pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St Stephen Catholic Church or the Charity of your choice.

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