Dr. Frank James Kutilek III, devoted physician, loving husband and father, and tree connoisseur, passed away Feb. 18, 2024, at 72 years old, in his home as he always wished.

After suffering a stroke in 2016, Frank continued to enjoy the comforts of his home and the coniferous fortress he had spent decades tending to, til the end. Frank was born on the 31st of March in 1951 in Wichita to Frank Jr. and Ruth Kutilek (Johnston). As a child, the proud Czechoslovakian spent much of his time with his beloved Johnston grandparents alongside his equally ornery brothers, Ken and Doug. Frank also earned his Eagle Scout at a very young age and was proud of it.

Through his high school years, Frank found a love for football, swimming and science, which sparked his love for medicine. In 1973, Frank achieved a bachelor’s in biology from Wichita State University, and moved to Kansas City, Mo., with spouse Linda Kutilek (Durant). From this union, son Jon Kutilek was born in 1975 and daughter Jamie Kutilek was born in 1977. From his hard work and determination through medical school, Frank achieved his Doctorate of Osteopathy from Kansas City University and graduated Suma Cum Laude in 1978. Frank moved back to Wichita in 1977 and later began practicing “west of the big ditch” alongside his father, and later established Kutilek Family Medicine. In 1983, son Zach Kutilek (Susan) was born.

Throughout these years, Frank furthered his love for tree husbandry and began fulfilling his dream of living “out in the sticks.” In 1989, Frank met the love of his life, Dianne Kutilek (Hansen), and was married June 2, 1990. The couple welcomed daughter Jacquelyn Ternes (Kutilek) in 1993 and son Frank Kutilek IV in 1995. Frank remained committed to caring for the underserved and never turned anyone away, even after his retirement in 1999.

His patients knew him as more than a doctor; he was family and devotedly referred to as “Doc” by them. Post retirement, Frank focused on his love for music, specifically guitar, and gardening, animals, his faith, and being “Papa” to his grandkids. He was known for his love of his family, nature, and taking care of others even through his decline in health; he never took off the white coat.

Frank is survived by wife, Dianne Kutilek; sons, Zach Kutilek (Crystal) and Frank Kutilek IV (Erina); daughters, Jamie Kutilek and Jacquelyn Ternes (Ryan); siblings, Kandy Thompson (Paul), Doug Kutilek (Naomi), and Karen Logue (Dwayne); 14 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by parents, Frank and Ruth Kutilek; brother, Ken Kutilek; son, Jon Kutilek; grandson, Ezekial Angleton; and great-granddaughter, Maelee Kutilek.

He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, comedic relief, and caring nature and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Funeral service will be held on Feb. 23 at the Cheney Baptist Church, located at 1502 N. Main St., Cheney. Viewing will be held at 10 a.m. with service commencing at 11 a.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the historic Riggs Arboretum in Waterloo, Kan. Please

join us in celebrating Frank's life and honoring his legacy. Forever in our hearts.