Frank Lee Lojka, age 51, of Lincoln, NE, died peacefully in his home on December 3, 2021, after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
He was born in October 1970, in Hays, Kansas, the son of Glen Franklin and Barbara Lee (Blundell) Lojka.
Lee graduated from Manhattan High School and attended Fort Hays State University majoring in Fine Arts; he then attended Kansas State University graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropology.
He was married to Michelle M. “Shelly” Roben in July of 1995; she was his best friend and partner in life for 26 years.
Survivors include his wife Shelly Roben-Lojka and one child Renn Lojka of Lincoln, NE; his mother Barbara Lojka of Manhattan; his brother Dr. Brian Lojka (Tonya) of Chesterfield, MO; his In-laws Gerald and Sue Roben of Bellevue, Iowa; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Lee was preceded in death by his father on August 31st, 2021.
Lee was a Chef and Director of Food Service programs throughout Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. His career spanned 21 years and culminated in his dream job as the Director of Food Service at Camp Carol Joy Holling in Ashland, NE. part of Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. He was a talented artist, teacher and role model. Lee was an avid reader, collector of cookbooks, lover of cats and an outdoorsman whose favorite place was anywhere he could fish, hike, kayak and cook over an open fire. He spent his time loving people through food, music and dynamic conversation. Lee was a gentle giant who was never at a loss for words and always made people feel welcome. He had a quick sense of humor and a huge laugh that would fill a room. Lee loved large family and friend gatherings where there was laughter and chaos. Lee was a fiercely loyal son, brother and friend but above all else he was a devoted husband and father.
Memorial service to be held at 10:00 am Saturday, December 18th, at College Avenue United Methodist Church, 1609 College Avenue, Manhattan, KS, with Reverend Dr. Dennis Ackerman and Pastor Nate Wilcox officiating. A celebration of Lee’s life will be held following the service from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm at the Kansas State University Alumni Center, 100 Alumni Ctr, 1720 Anderson Ave., Manhattan, KS.
Online condolences may be left for the family by clicking on "Send Condolences" on this page.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lee Lojka Memorial Fund, to be designated later. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.