Frank Hakel

2011 Inductee

Frank Hakel has served the Union City community for more than 50 years. He and his wife, Joan, moved to Union City in 1961. They raised five children in this community and have been proud to call it home.

Frank began teaching at Union City High School in 1963 and taught there until 1968. He then moved to the Erie County Technical School and later the Catholic Dioceses of Erie, where he served as administrator. Frank served as mayor of Union City for four years. He was a member of Union City Borough Council for eight years. Frank served on the Union City Area School District Board of Directors for six years, acting as President during that time. He was President of the board that oversaw the remodeling of the existing Middle/High School building. Frank also served on the Union City Hospital Board and played a key role in establishing the Union City Family Support Center.

Frank has been a loyal and active member at his home parish of St. Teresa of Avila Roman Catholic Church. He has volunteered countless hours to his church in the form of teaching, serving on various committees, and participating in fund raisers and festivals. Frank and his wife, Joan, also volunteered their time with the Union City Alumni Homecoming Banquet for several years. Frank was one of the co-founders of the Union City Lumber Festival that was held in Union City.

Even after retirement, Frank has devoted his time and resources to the community. Frank volunteered in Martha Blair's Art classes, teaching the students stained glass window techniques so they could construct the beautiful "Rose Garden" window.

Even though Frank did not graduate from Union City, he takes a great deal of pride in this wonderful community. He has always instilled that pride in his children and to all those he meets. It is because of people like him that make Union City a great place to call home and raise a family.