Frank Paul Windt Jr.
Obituary
Frank Paul Windt Jr., 76, of Santa Cruz, passed away on December 16, 2025, surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones.
Born on June 1, 1949, in Evergreen Park, Illinois to Frank Windt Sr. and Geraldine Windt, Frank's life was rooted in devotion to his family, his community, and his faith. He moved to Santa Cruz at the age of 17 with his parents and 10 siblings and proudly called it home for nearly the remainder of his life. He attended Catholic school and raised all six of his children at Good Shepherd Catholic School.
Frank is survived by his loving wife, Amy; his six children: Paul, Greg, Damien, Amanda, Cheryl, and Alan; his grandchildren, Wesley, Connor, Rita, Natasha, Claridy, and Farrah; the children he welcomed through marriage, Mattye, Kenzie, Summerlyn, Justice and Chelsea and his nephew Mark, his bonus son. He also leaves behind his siblings: Diane, Susan, Debbie, Geri, Heidi, Wendy, Theresa, Michael, Carl and John; and many nieces and nephews.
He faithfully served the City of Campbell as an esteemed police officer from 1973 to 1987, and graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in criminology and sociology in 1980 balancing public service, education and raising his family. In 1984 he opened Windt TV with his brother Carl and father Frank Paul Windt, Sr.. In 1988 he purchased Santa Cruz Radio & TV and operated it for 36 years with his son Greg and nephew Mark.
Frank was known for his generosity, humor, and compassionate heart. He had a natural ability to make others feel welcome and valued. Whether offering help, sharing a laugh, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Frank embodied quiet strength and unwavering kindness. He was truly a pillar of his community and left a lasting impact on countless lives. His faith guided him, and helping others brought him joy.
He enjoyed playing and coaching softball, tailgating football games, flipping houses, tending to his beloved dogs and attending the opera and film festivals. Above all, he cherished time with his family. His greatest pride was being a father.
Frank's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he nurtured, and the community he helped build. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his generous spirit, and the love he gave so freely.
A memorial service will be held on March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Twin Lakes Church in Aptos. All who knew and loved Frank are welcome to attend and celebrate his life.
Published in Good Times · March 16, 2026