Frank William Turcany

Frank William Turcany, 82, of Torrance, California entered into eternal rest on September 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Chicago, IL to the late Louis and Rose (nee Andriachi) Turcany, Frank grew up and served as a church altar server as a young boy and even sang in the choir. While he was still young, his parents moved the family to Southern California. After graduating from Mount Carmel All-Boys Catholic High School in Los Angeles, Frank continued to prosper, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Northrop Institute of Technology.

His career spanned 33 years reaching notable heights culminating with the prestigious assignment to one of our Air Force’s top-secret programs, the long-range, high-altitude SR-71 Blackbird strategic reconnaisance aircraft. Though Frank was always modest about his role, his association with the program was a major source of pride for him.

While on assignment in Okinawa, Frank met Keiko Nakandakari, the love of his life. What was intended to be an 18-month stay turned into 18 years! They married in 1970 and remained inseparable for 55 years; wherever Kei was, Frank was sure to be found. His love for both Kei and her native Okinawa, with its rich landscape and kind-natured people, never left him.

Frank retired in 1988. He was a gardener, golfer, and poker player who cherished traveling with his family, especially his favorite trips back to Okinawa with Kei.

Frank is survived by his wife of 55 years, Keiko Turcany, his children, Tamara (Todd), Mayumi (Guy), and Miyuki (Jim); his three grandchildren, Danielle, Domonique, and Sayuri; and his brother, Louis (Shirlee), their children, Debbie, Vickie, John, Lindi, and Cathy, along with many other cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Rose; his daughter, Melissa; and his granddaughter, Chantel.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Coastal Funeral Center, 25001 Narbonne Avenue, Lomita, CA, 90717.

Family and friends are also invited to view the funeral broadcast live-stream here: Frank William Turcany Live-Stream