MR. FRANK SLEZINA of Coaldale, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Sunday, March 28, 2010 at the age of 87 years.

Frank was born October 7, 1922 in Knezdub, Czech Republic. He moved to Canada in May of 1937 at the age of 15. He settled in rural Coaldale, Alberta where he launched his farming and ranching career in 1947. Frank built up the family business, later to be called Southolm Angus Ranch. In 50+ years, Frank developed an Angus herd that has influenced the beef cattle industry in more than 13 nations. Frank also was the first producer in the world to export pure-bred Angus breeding stock back to Scotland, where the breed originates.

Along with his commitment to his business, Frank was an avid traveler, who loved to talk about the many people he met across the world.

Frank married Angela in 1947 and went on to have 4 daughters and 2 sons. Later divorced, Frank spent the rest of his life with his partner, Jean Peake.

Frank is predeceased by his son Kenneth Slezina and survived by his 5 children; Millie (John) Boake, Fran (Garry) Sartison, Gary (Dena) Slezina, Evelyn (Colin) Yackulic, Lonnie Slezina, as well as 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Frank has said he has had a good life. He will be missed and will be remembered.

A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, with Reverend Lois Punton, officiating.