ATHENS, GA. – Frank Sinkwich Jr., 61, passed away in his home surrounded by his family the morning of Saturday, April 17, 2010.

A lifelong resident of Athens, he was the son of Adeline Weatherly and the late Frank Sinkwich Sr.

He attended Athens High School and later graduated from the University of Georgia while serving as a medic in the United States Air Force Reserve.

Frank was President of both Northeast Sales Distributing in Georgia and Skyland Distributing in North Carolina.

He was very active in the beer and wine distribution business and served many years on the board of the Georgia Beer Wholesalers Association. In 2008, Frank was inducted into the Miller Brewing Company’s prestigious “Legends” Hall of Fame based on his outstanding achievements during his lifetime.

Frank’s true passion was flying. He earned his pilot’s license at the age of 16 and flew all over the United States for both business and pleasure. In 1989, he flew his two sons and several others from Athens, Georgia to the Magnetic North Pole and back, a feat that later earned him recognition in the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame.

Frank served as a trustee for Athens Academy, supported many organizations in the northeast Georgia area and was a member of the Athens First United Methodist Church.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marilyn Sinkwich; his four children, Frank Sinkwich III, Melissa Sinkwich, Scott Sinkwich and Amanda Sinkwich; and four grandchildren, Frankie, Adeline, Hilt and Sienna; and a sister, Francine Sinkwich of Atlanta.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 20, at the Athens First United Methodist Church with Dr. Chuck Hodges officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Monday, April 19 at Bernstein from 6 to 8 p.m.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the Loren Smith Cancer Center, 1190 Prince Avenue, Athens, GA 30606.

Visit www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com to make online condolences.

Bernstein Funeral home is in charge of arrangements.

Frank Francis Sinkwich