USS Arizona Model Ship Donated to David Simpson Hospice House as Tribute to Care

While it was emotional entering the doors of David Simpson Hospice House, Roseann Fraczek and her children, Thomas and Christine, were determined to fulfill their promise to husband and father, Francis Fraczek. A patient at David Simpson Hospice House for just one week, 71 year-old Francis was so taken by the care and atmosphere, that he asked his family to donate a special USS Arizona model ship built by him, for display in the Atrium.
 
An U.S. Army Veteran, Francis was talented at recreating model ships, illustrated by the intricate painting and replication of the USS Arizona that is now proudly displayed at David Simpson Hospice House for all to enjoy.
 
Francis passed way in February, but April provided a sunny, warm day for the dedication.
 
“Everybody was just so good to him, to all of us,” said Roseann. “We’d always put him in the wheelchair and bring him out here, and he loved the cabinet of items. He told us that he wished to have this model ship placed there, it was something that he really wanted, so he would be very pleased.”
 
Francis’ son followed in his military footsteps entering the U.S. Navy.
 
“Do you think you will carry on the model ship tradition?” asked Charles Wellman, MD, FAAHPM, Chief Medical Officer of Hospice of the Western Reserve.
 
“We always used to build them when I was a kid,” said Thomas. “But then he bought me a bb gun…and there went all the models.
 
The group chuckled. 
 
“My daughter had a dream about him last night,” said Roseann. “He was laughing and smiling, he knew we were bringing it here today.”
 
We are truly honored that the staff and volunteers at David Simpson Hospice House made such an impact on Francis, and now, he can make an impact on visitors, patients and their families.

It is a privilege to showcase this special piece of personal history. Many thanks to the Fraczek Family for their donation.