By Tom Momberg
Well known Bayside civic leader and community activist Frank Skala died of a stroke at Long Island’s St. Francis Hospital in the early hours of Monday morning after a few months of deteriorating health. He was 78 years old.
Skala was still fighting a good fight, showing up at Community Board 11 meetings before summer recess, and made an appearance with Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) in July to be awarded with the state Senate’s Liberty Medal, one of New York’s highest civilian honors.
He always made his voice heard, and had a perfect attendance record as a member of CB 11.
“I used to do a lot more work than I can do now. It’s hard to type, it’s hard to use a pen, but I can still say no,” Skala said when he received the award from Avella last month, referring to his own outspoken nature when it came to community issues.
In recent months, Skala’s children, friends and neighbors saw to his care.
He is survived by his son Edward Skala, his daughter Bonnie Skala Kiladitis and his grandchildren Brayden Kiladitis and Alexa Kiladitis.
Skala founded the East Bayside Homeowners Association and created the first series of alumni books for Bayside High School.
Skala’s wake is slated for Thursday, Aug. 20, and Friday, Aug. 21, 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. both days at the Lloyd Funeral Home, 214-43 39th Ave., in Bayside. His family said all would be welcome.
Reach reporter Tom Momberg by e-mail at tmomb
