Biography of Frank A. Zak

FRANK A. ZAK, who carries on general farming on section 11, Howard Township, has spent the greater part of his life in Howard County, although born at Calmar, Iowa, in September, 1883. His parents were Frank and Catherine (Horkey) Zak, both of whom were natives of Bohemia, whence they came to the new world in young manhood and womanhood. They became acquainted and were married in Winneshiek County, Iowa, and settled on a farm near Calmar, Mr. Zak there renting land until about 1893 or 1894, when he purchased the farm in Howard County upon which his son, Frank A., now resides, acquiring title to one hundred and twenty acres of land. His attention was then given to the further development and improvement of this property up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1912. His wife had passed away two years after their removal to Howard county.

Frank A. Zak began his education at the usual age, attending the district schools and the parochial school at Spillville, Winneshiek County. Through vacation periods he aided in the work of the home farm and after reaching his majority he remained upon the old homestead and assisted his father in the further cultivation and development of the place. About four years prior to his father's death he took over the operation and management of the farm as a renter and about a year prior to his father's demise bought the home place, which he still owns and cultivates. He has worked diligently and persistently as the years have passed on and his success is the direct result of earnest labor. He is also a stockholder in the Maple Leaf Creamery Company.

In 1911 Mr. Zak was united in marriage to Miss Nettie Maravetz, a daughter of Joseph Maravetz, who is now living retired in Cresco. They have become the parents of three children: Ralph R., Jerome J., and Richard A.

In politics Mr. Zak is a democrat, but has never been an office seeker, preferring to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his farming interests. He and his wife are member of the Catholic Church and in the community where they reside they have become widely and favorably known. At an early age Mr. Zak realized the industry is the basis of all honorable success and throughout his entire life he has been a most industrious man, his labors bringing about the careful cultivation of the fields, resulting in the gathering of golden harvests.

History of Chickasaw and Howard Counties,
By Robert Herd Fairbairn (Published 1919 - Volume II)
S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois
Transcribed by Janice Sowers